Northeast Opportunities for Wellness Inc.

Overview

Northeast Opportunities for Wellness Inc. (NOW) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit human service organization dedicated to providing opportunities for youth wellness in Northeastern Connecticut. Founded in 2011 by an all-volunteer board of directors from a ten-town area, NOW aims to ensure access to social, emotional, and physical wellness programs for young individuals, regardless of their financial resources.

Mission

The mission of NOW is to positively impact the lives of youth in the Quiet Corner of Connecticut by ensuring that every child has access to essential wellness programs. This includes activities to foster a love of physical activity, educational resources for healthy foods and hydration, and sports programs to build athletic skills, self-esteem, and sportsmanship[1][2].

Programs

NOW offers a variety of programs to promote holistic wellness among young people. These include:

• Fitness Programs: Activities designed to encourage a lifelong love of physical activity and whole-body fitness.
• Nutrition Education: Resources and education to cultivate a love for healthy foods and proper hydration.
• Sports and Athletic Development: Programs aimed at developing athletic skills, promoting self-esteem, and fostering sportsmanship[2].

Fundraising and Community Engagement

NOW engages in several fundraising activities to support its programs. A notable example is the annual Celebrity Comedy Show, which has successfully raised significant funds for youth wellness initiatives. In 2023, this event raised over $19,000 from a sold-out show featuring community celebrities and sponsored by local businesses[3].

Governance and Support

NOW is governed by a dedicated all-volunteer board of directors, with support from local businesses, organizations, and community members. The organization's success relies on donations of time, funding, and resources, which are crucial for sustaining its programs and services[1][2].