Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Black Boarders CT
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 55 Fairlea Ave, (c/o Vince Stimpson)
City: Stratford
State: Connecticut
Postal Code: 06614
Main Phone: 917-755-4909
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://blackboardersct.org/
Employer ID Number: 88-2709634
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 02/20/2025
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Empow(d)ering Dreams
Project Description:

Black Boarders CT works to increase access, representation, and belonging in snowboarding for Black and Brown youth by removing financial, cultural, and logistical barriers. We provide gear, instruction, and community-centered mountain experiences, fostering outdoor engagement and personal growth. Our mission extends beyond snowboarding, aiming to reconnect youth with nature and support their journey through both the challenges and joys.
Our innovative model combines subsidized access to equipment, instruction, and lift tickets through a partnership with Mount Southington (CT), and uses mentors and instructors who provide inclusive, affirming spaces where youth feel safe, seen, and celebrated; transforming a recreational space into an opportunity for belonging, resilience, and improved mental health. Our focus on intergenerational engagement is the greatest driver for sustained change.
Our strategies are designed for growth and replication: we’ve scaled from a pilot cohort of 5 youth to 50, and expanded to include a moms cohort (with women who are often more excited than their children), demonstrating sustained demand and effective programming. As winter sports participation diversifies, we are positioned to drive systemic change. https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/organization-aims-to-introduce-more-kids-of-color-to-winter-sports/3700643/
As a result of integrating the moms in this way, our first official cohort of 25 youth (year 2) achieved an 88% proficiency rate among those attending four or more sessions, demonstrating their ability to move to a larger mountain and actively snowboard. In our second cohort of 25 youth, 92% reached proficiency with consistent attendance, further validating our approach and impact. These outcomes reflect measurable progress in skill development and confidence, and strategic parental involvement. We are currently in our third year with a cohort of 50 youth and 15 moms (women).

Total Project Budget: 35000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential):

Project Duration:
Geographical Area Served: Connecticut
Age Group To Be Served: 7-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Natasha
Contact Last Name: Harris
Contact Title: Grant Consultant
Contact Phone: 959-888-2735
Contact Email: nharris@ccconsultingct.com