THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
ANDY FORSYTH
Board Member
Andy has been the Assistant Director of the Ridgefield Library for six years. The mission and values of Compassionate Ridgefield closely align with those of libraries, emphasizing respect, compassion and service to all.
DENISE QUALEY
CAROL MAHLSTEDT
Past Chairperson
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As a psychologist, I am profoundly aware of the power of empathy and compassion in strengthening resilience and healthy emotional climates. Working to foster greater compassion in a community that I love and call home is an honor and a privilege and an initiative I very much believe in!
RUDY MARCONI
Ridgefield First Selectman
We all need to pay better attention to the importance of compassion and respect for one's neighbor. We have, in recent years, seen a disturbing decline in civility---on the athletic fields, online, and in the community. Signing the charter will be Ridgefield's public acknowledgement of our commitment to being a more compassionate community.
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MARGARET BEST RODGERS
Board Member
It’s an honor to serve Ridgefield through Compassionate Ridgefield. Compassion, kindness, attentiveness to the needs of others, and a focus on gratitude & giving inform my choices and act as a North Star in my day-to-day life. As the mother of four children in our wonderful town, I am thrilled that we have so many dedicated people and organizations working in harmony to make our community warmer, safer, and more welcoming to all of our neighbors.
EZRA ZIMMERMAN
Board Member
I joined the Compassionate Ridgefield board to try and promote kindness, and compassion in the Ridgefield community. I think it's important that people in town, especially our youth understand how important this is, especially during these tough times.
ERIN CRAIG
SHELLY FISHER
Secretary
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MARTHA MORRIS
Chairperson
Martha Morris is honored to work on such an open-hearted initiative! In my work as a psychotherapist in Ridgefield, I am keenly aware that when we approach others, ourselves and our life-circumstances with compassion - space is created that allows healing. And healing is what progress is made of - Onward!
BOB CASCELLA
Treasurer
I have lived in our wonderful community since 2004. Professionally, I own and manage Grove Street Realty Advisors, a commercial real estate company. I have always believed in giving back to my community, and believe that it is more important than ever to work towards bringing greater peace, compassion and understanding to Ridgefield.
DENISE QUALEY
Board Member
The mission of Compassionate Ridgefield focuses on the action of kindness. I feel that is it right up there with the importance of love and I want to be apart of something that makes our community a place of love and kindness.