Educate, Embrace, and Empower
We believe that knowledge is power and by becoming better informed, we can begin to take the steps necessary to prevent or treat the problem. This is an issue that affects all aspects of our community and your involvement will make a positive difference.
Our goal is to continue to work in conjunction with town agencies, police departments, schools and religious communities to enlighten our community in order to prevent the use of drugs and alcohol among our youth.
Parent Connection is committed to addressing the problem of substance abuse directly and is dedicated to helping increase awareness through education.
The holiday season can bring out a wide array of emotions – the good, bad and the ugly. We may feel overwhelmed planning gatherings, stressed about time management, worried about our loved one who is using or abusing drugs, or feeling exhausted thinking about everything on our calendar. Here are some tips to reduce holiday stress:
Recognize when you are getting stressed:
Some signs of stress can include problems sleeping, being more irritable, feeling depressed, or having body aches.
Know your financial limitations:
You can get someone a meaningful and personal gift without having to spend a fortune.
Be realistic with your goals:
Expectations can cause stress as you try to figure out how you're going to accomplish everything, so take a step back and reassess.
Take time for yourself:
It's important to take a break once in a while. There is no written rule that says you have to be there for everyone all the time.
Know your limitations:
Prioritize what's important to you and give yourself permission to let some things go. It is okay to tell people, “No.”
Avoid excessive alcohol or other drug use:
It's easy during the holidays to get caught up in the festivities and holiday parties, especially when you feel stressed.
Support Groups
We offer a compassionate, family systems approach, providing holistic programs to educate, empower, and rehabilitate families. Our support groups are open, free and all are welcome.
Donations are always appreciated.
Learn more about how you can get involved and help us to keep our programs going.
Hope & Support
Groups
Bereavement
Group
Know someone in Recovery?
Our mission is to support individuals while transitioning from treatment, sober living, and group homes.
We offer clothing, shoes, jewelry, and resume guidance
to prepare people for the best stage of their lives, recovery.
Visits are by appointment only. Please contact Lynne to schedule a visit.
Phone: 203-304-1050 Email: lynne@newtownparentconnection.org
Founder &
Executive Director
Dorrie Carolan and her husband raised their four children in Newtown, CT. Starting the Parent Connection was never part of her plan. The issue of substance abuse became personal when her eldest son, Brian, became addicted and subsequently died at age 28 of a prescription drug overdose. Through the struggles caused by Brian's addiction, Dorrie became aware that this was an issue that affected many others in the community. She founded the Parent Connection in 1993 in an attempt to network with other concerned parents. It was the impetus behind many policy changes in town and within the schools.
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is a committed body of volunteers who support our mission to keep our youth safe and substance free.
President
Treasurer
Secretary
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Maggie Conway
Lil Martenson
Matt Briand