The Waterbury Times|Published May 28, 2026 2:05am

Waterbury-The Waterbury community will gather Thursday morning to recognize Foster Care Awareness Month and honor a local foster parent whose work has helped change lives behind the scenes.

Paul K. Pernerewski Jr. will host a recognition ceremony on Thursday, May 28 at 9:00 a.m. at Family & Children’s Aid.

The event will bring together local organizations, advocates, foster families, and community leaders connected to the foster care system throughout Waterbury.

According to organizers, the ceremony will recognize an “extraordinary foster parent” whose commitment reflects both the challenges and sacrifices involved in foster parenting, while also highlighting the life-changing impact foster families can have on children and young people.

The event will include participation from:

• Family & Children’s Aid leadership
• Connecticut Department of Children and Families staff
• Annie C. Courtney Foundation leadership
• Waterbury Youth Services
• Boys & Girls Club of Greater Waterbury
• foster parents and community advocates

The recognition comes as communities nationwide continue efforts to raise awareness around foster care, youth support systems, and the need for stable homes and mentorship opportunities for children in crisis situations.

EVENT DETAILS

What: Foster Care Awareness Month Recognition – Honoring an Extraordinary Foster Parent
When: Thursday, May 28, 2026 — 9:00 a.m. to approximately 9:35 a.m.
Where: Family & Children’s Aid
Hosted By: Paul K. Pernerewski Jr.

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