2024 Winners – The Beacon Awards

Michael Barbaro

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Michael Barbaro has a long history of providing financial support to numerous East Haven, New Haven, and Branford organizations for over two decades. Inspired by Neil Mellen, founder of Town Fair Tire, Michael is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community. His contributions have supported New Reach, St. Martin DePorres School, the Boys & Girls Club of New Haven, the Sarah Foundation, Connecticut Hospice, Wreaths Across America, Feeding Families Foundation, and Fair Haven Community Health.

Barbara Barrett

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Barbara Barrett, President of Friends of the Blackstone Memorial Library, supports literacy and enrichment programs for Branford and surrounding communities. Barrett brings leadership skills from her management background to sharpen the group as an organization and engage more people. Over her time as president, she has recruited more volunteers and helped the Friends raise an annual income of over $160,000 to support the library. She is grateful for the giving and supportive community.

David Blifford

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David Blifford is a dedicated resident of Deep River. For the past 10 years, he has worked with the Fountain Hill Cemetery Board of Directors to maintain and preserve the cemetery according to bylaws. He has even worked on the restoration of the cemetery’s pond and the installation of a water fountain. He also assists with local elections and helped fundraise and purchase food for the community health committee’s backpack program, ensuring elementary students have meals after school. David finds inspiration in his like-minded neighbors, who strive to make a meaningful impact in their small town.

Bernadette Carver

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Bernadette Carver has volunteered in the communities of Westbrook and Essex for almost thirty years. Since 1995, she has held multiple leadership roles and organized major fundraisers for the Exchange Club of Old Saybrook/Westbrook. Her passion for supporting others extends to causes such as the Beach Jam for Cancer Patient Care and Warm the Children, helping families in need. Fueled by seeing smiling faces, she was inspired by her mother, her time as a Girl Scout, and the rewarding experience of co-chairing the activities committee for the 1995 Special Olympics World Games in Connecticut.

Nancy Leckerling

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Inspired by her Christian faith and her family, Nancy Leckerling of Madison has dedicated decades to volunteering with various organizations, including Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Haven, Raise the Roof, IRIS, and the Environmental Ministry Team for the First Congregational Church in Guilford. Her efforts have ranged from building homes and organizing volunteer groups to settling refugees from Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Syria—two of whom became part of her family. Additionally, she co-founded the environmental ministry team to lead initiatives aimed at “greening the church.”

Lorrie Maiorano

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Lorrie Maiorano of East Haven has built meaningful connections with the community through understanding the unique needs and aspirations of the people she has served in many communities, including East Haven. She strives to grow personally through connections with others, and in exchange, she shares her skills, time, and care. Inspired by her upbringing and experiences as a parent, she has volunteered for organizations such as the East Haven Chamber of Commerce, the East Haven Economic Development Commission, and the New Haven Middlesex Association of Realtors.

Paul Muniz

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Paul Muniz has been an avid server of Branford organizations for over two decades. As a chairman of the Branford Solid Waste Management Commission, he has led studies on Branford’s trash and recycling program, paving the way for new collection methods and improved cost controls. He has also increased flood risk awareness among Branford residents through volunteering for the Branford Coastal Vulnerability Working Group. As President of the Hotchkiss Grove Shore District, he spearheaded recovery efforts following two hurricanes. Inspired by his father-in-law and neighbor, Paul is driven by the belief that when you have the knowledge to help, it’s your responsibility to give back.

Eileen Parlato

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Eileen Parlato of East Haven has volunteered with various local organizations, including the East Haven Food Pantry, East Haven Pride, and Team Rubicon. She spearheaded the creation of a formal and consistent home delivery program for the food pantry, now serving nearly 50 households monthly. Along with managing this program, she also helps to distribute food at the pantry on Saturdays. Inspired by her parents, Noreen and Fred Parlato, who are East Haven Merit Award winners, Eileen believes that volunteering strengthens community connections, fosters empathy, and brings a deeper sense of purpose to those who give back.

Jackie Peters

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A cancer survivor, Jackie Peters is dedicated to helping others through their fight. As the leader of Team Pff, Jackie has expanded the team from supporting breast cancer research to raising over $100,000 for assorted causes, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Make A Wish, The Cove, and several families coping with tragic circumstances. She wants to give back to the community who cared for her through both of her cancer diagnoses. Jackie also walks every year for Alzheimer’s. She says if she could walk a few miles to help with research for a cure, sign her up!

Lorenzo Santamaria

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Lorenzo Santamaria, a Marine Corps veteran and Purple Heart recipient, has lived his life serving his community and fellow veterans. As commander of the Edward A. Norton VFW Post #7666 since 1979, he has been at the heart of organizing Memorial Day parades and ceremonies for veterans. Beyond his leadership, he provides thousands of meals through Meals on Wheels and community events like the Guilford Veterans Day Lasagna Dinner. He was inducted into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame in 2024 for his community work and generosity.