Community and State Respond to Save Dancing Dolphins Class

Family Centers announced today the “Dancing Dolphins” school readiness class has been saved, and will open as scheduled on Sept. 3. With the class facing a possible closure after Family Centers was informed funding from the State Department of Education was not forthcoming, the agency launched the “Save the Dancing Dolphins” public awareness campaign earlier this month. 

The local media rallied behind the program, and provided extensive coverage outlining the class’ plight.  As a result, members of the community and area foundations quickly responded by awarding gifts totaling $91,000.  At the state level, Reps. Lile Gibbons, Dolly Powers and Livvy Floren were also instrumental in securing an additional grant from the State Dept. of Social Services (DSS) to fund nine of the class’ 13 spots.

“As a result of some very effective and determined teamwork, I’m pleased to announce the funds needed to operate the Dancing Dolphins class have been secured,” said Family Centers President Bob Arnold.  “The community-wide support is truly heartening, and will yield wonderful results for the 13 children and their families.”

Family Centers thanks the following individuals and organizations for their generosity, passion and dedication to making quality preschool services available to all children in Greenwich: Louis H. Aborn Foundation, Fairfield County Community Foundation, The Malkin Fund, Sylvia and Leonard Marx, Jr., Barbara and Evan Salop, V.P.D. Real Estate and State Reps. Lile Gibbons, Dolly Powers and Livvy Floren.