About Us

The West Haven Community House -- a private, not for profit organization -- exists to facilitate healthy, productive, independent and meaningful lives for children, adolescents and families, and individuals with disabilities. The cornerstone social service agency of West Haven, the Community House annually provides services to 1,000 area residents.

Current programs and services include:

• Head Start (comprehensive preschool for low-income
  children);
• School Age Child Care (before and after school care for
  elementary school children; summer program);
• Kids in the Neighborhood (after-school enrichment program for elementary school children);
• Community Connections (community integration day activities and job training/employment program for adults with mental retardation); and
• Residential Services for adults with mental retardation.

Services are offered at our 227 Elm Street headquarters, as well as numerous locations throughout West Haven, including:  Community Connections at 622 Campbell Avenue, area businesses, West Haven public schools, and several group homes and supported living apartments.

Major sources of funding include: The US Department of Health and Human Services; the CT Department of Developmental Services; the CT Department of Education; the CT Department of Social Services; The United Way of Greater New Haven; The CT Department of Children & Families; the West Haven Community Development Administration; and numerous corporations and foundations.

The Community House is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. Mr. Rich Bruno is President of the Board. Patricia W. Stevens is Executive Director.

Other management staff include:

• Deborah Wright, Assistant Executive Director/Finance
• Linda Rentz, Human Resources & Facility Management Director
• Marcy Hotchkiss, Development & Communications Director
• Marie Watson, Disability Services Director
• Davaul Amin, Residential Services Director
• Linda Michaels, Head Start Director
• Carol James, School Age Child Care Director
• Tomas Miranda, Positive Youth Development Coordinator