Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1488011
8 | COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT 2022 | UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL AND NORTHEASTERN CONNECTICUT annually to a member of our industry who embodies the characteristics that Jeff possessed. A portion of the proceeds will also be donated to Covenant Preparatory School in Jeff's name," added Soule. To plan this event, Ed, Mark and Dave quickly brought together a committee of leaders from the commercial real estate and building industry. Just as they began, so did the COVID-19 pandemic. "When the pandemic hit and the world shut down, we had an important decision to make," said Mark Vasington. "We had always envisioned our first- ever event being in-person. However, as the pandemic continued, we saw the need in the community increase dramatically and we felt like we had to move forward and do something to help, so we decided to hold our first event virtually." The inaugural event, known now as Building Foundations, saw unprecedented success, attracting more than 70 sponsors and raising more than $300,000 to prevent and address homelessness in the community. In 2022, the event was held in-person and raised more than $420,000, quickly becoming United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut's largest fundraising event in just two years. Dollars raised through Building Foundations support programs and services that provide emergency shelter and help prevent homelessness from occurring through diversion efforts. Planning for 2023 is already underway and the event is poised to reach $1 million raised collectively, just three years after inception. Founding committee member Michael Riccio shared, "The work that this group does is contagious. This has quickly become THE event for our industry and it is a can't-miss opportunity. It feels good to do good, and to be able to do this with people that we work with day in and day out is a gift and one of the most impactful things I've been a part of. I can't wait to see what we do next." SAVE THE DATE THE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AND BUILDING INDUSTRY BREAKFAST: BUILDING FOUNDATIONS THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2023 HARTFORD MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN 7:30 – 9:30 A.M. For more information, contact Maura Cook at mcook@unitedwayinc.org. The Community Service Award is United Way's highest volunteer honor given annual in recognition of an individual or group who exemplify what it looks like to LIVE UNITED. Alan Lazowski, 2022 Jeffrey Digel Award recipient, receives a standing ovation at the 2nd Annual Building Foundations Breakfast.