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Although last year's Stone Soup event in Stamford was satisfying, it whetted Polly O'Brien Morrow's appetite for more.
"I was here last year, and there was so much to see and do and learn," said Morrow. She came back for a second helping Saturday, bringing along her two daughters.
The event, Stone Soup for the 21st Century, enabled hundreds to gain information about Stamford organizations and programs, take part in workshops and enjoy entertainment. The daylong community resource expo at the Academy of Information Technology & Engineering was aimed at families. Stone Soup refers to the folktale in which everyone brings in one ingredient and together the community makes soup that can feed all.
The event attracted scores of participating agencies. At one station, Read to Grow representatives distributed books. At another, Loft Artists Association Co-President Lisa Cuscuna discussed its shows. John Roman, director of Eastside Partnership, told visitors about community projects. Stamford Achieves Executive Director Michelle James explained the nonprofit's school-oriented services. CTE's Betty McCree fielded several questions about starting small businesses.
"It's informational, and it's fun for [children] as well," said Xiomara Guadalupe, whose daughter Sierra Victor, 4, was busy examining a seastar at the SoundWaters touch tank. Guadalupe said she received helpful information at a seminar about preparing Sierra for kindergarten.
Student volunteer Kurt Bittel was immersed in showing youngsters different Legos machinations at the Robotics station. Aiden Somma, 8, was intrigued.
"I really like Legos," said Aiden, who has already chosen his career path. "I want to work with Legos and create new Legos sets," the Hart Magnet School third-grader said.
Organization-to-organization contacts also were made. The Stamford Boys & Girls Club invited the Connecticut Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses to make a presentation to girls about healthy eating, body image and self-esteem.
State Rep. William Tong, D-147, whose 2-year-old daughter Penelope was focused on an art display, applauded the event.
"I think it's incredible we're able to get the community together like this," he said.
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