On Friday, December 13, Pathways, Inc., and River House Adult Day Center proudly announced a transformative $1 million gift from an anonymous benefactor, celebrated at a community event held at River House.
This substantial donation is a milestone for these two longstanding non-profits, both of which provide essential services to some of Greenwich’s most vulnerable populations.
“This gift is a testament to the value of the work we do and the people we serve. It is our hope that this act of generosity will not only empower us to continue delivering exceptional care but will also inspire others to support local non-profits and raise awareness of the vital roles we play in our community,” said Peter Tesei, Executive Director of Pathways, and Diandra Hernandez, Executive Director of River House in a release after the event.
Tesei and Hernendez talked about the importance of giving to local non-profits.
“As Executive Directors of River House and Pathways, two of Greenwich’s most longstanding and vital nonprofit organizations, we are excited to share this remarkable gift,” Hernendez and Tesei said. “Our organizations have received a generous donation from an anonymous benefactor, and we hope this contribution will not only raise awareness but also highlight the crucial work both organizations provide to individuals in need across our community.”
River House Adult Day Center, founded in 1977, is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for aging adults residents in Greenwich, Stamford, and neighboring communities. In addition to offering vital support and guidance to their caregivers, our beautiful facility in Cos Cob provides meals, transportation, events, and full-time professional care. Through a variety of daily activities, our participants have the opportunity to build new and lasting friendships while becoming an integral part of a vibrant peer community.
Pathways, Inc., established in 1981, empowers adults with mental health challenges such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and manic depression. Pathways operates four residential homes in Greenwich with varying levels of care and supports non-residential clients. Their day program in Cos Cob offers group activities, meals, and opportunities for community engagement. Pathways was born from a mother’s quest to help her adult son and continues to offer compassionate care to those in need.
“Like many nonprofits, we have faced significant financial hurdles, particularly during and after the global pandemic,” Tesei and Hernandez continued. “Despite these challenges, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to the Greenwich and Stamford communities, continuing to serve those in need with passion, dedication, and a clear focus on our mission. We believe this generous donation will mark a turning point, not only for our organizations but for other local nonprofits that provide essential services, acting as a catalyst to inspire further support.”
The anonymous benefactor behind this transformative gift expressed a powerful hope, saying, “These two organizations provide vital assistance to many with special needs. My hope is that this gift raises public awareness and interest in helping these caring and essential community services.”
River House began in the basement of Nathaniel Witherell, and Pathways was founded by a mother’s determination to help her adult son.
Though both organizations have grown immensely since their humble beginnings, there is still much more to be done.
To support Pathways, Inc., visit pways.org.
To support River House Adult Day Center, visit theriverhouse.org.