As we reflect on all the things we are thankful for this month, we are truly honored to introduce our four newest board members for the Branford Community Foundation (BCF): Rita Berkson, Stephanie Donegan Dietz, Bob Mobeck, and Colin Sheehan. These generous Branford residents have pledged their time to furthering BCF’s mission to connect people who care with the causes that matter.

Rita Berkson has been a Branford resident for the past 25 years, and has enjoyed both professional and volunteer work with nonprofit organizations throughout Connecticut. A graduate of the Harvard School of Public Health with a degree in Health Policy & Management, Rita has served in senior management in community health, hospital administration, and in the managed care industry. Currently, she provides strategic planning and development consulting to community-based organizations. Rita and her husband Randy Reinhold raised four children and now try to keep up with the activities of four energetic grandkids.

A lifelong Branford resident, Stephanie Donegan Dietz was raised in a family that has been deeply committed to community service. In fact, the Branford Community Foundation is a family tradition for Stephanie. “I’m honored to serve on the board of the BCF like my father did for many years,” says Stephanie. “The BCF is an organization that was dear to his heart.” After ten years in marketing at BCBS of CT, Stephanie left to raise two children, Nathan and Julia (now 20 and 21), and to help teach cooking classes with her mom, which she’s been doing for the past 20 years. Stephanie has worked as a real estate agent for the past 6 years, and is an avid reader and trivia buff.

Bob Mobeck has lived in Branford his entire life. Bob was educated in the Branford School System and chose to live here for his adult life. He and his wife Jeanette raised three children, all of whom attended Branford Public Schools. “This community has meant a lot to me and my family,” says Bob. “I have a strong desire to participate in an organization that took an active role in the community to make it an even better place to raise our children.”

Colin Sheehan was born in New York City and raised in Branford, CT. In 2003, he started a charity called MusiKids CT, Inc. in Branford. “I was fortunate enough to receive a grant for MusiKids in 2005 from the Branford Community Foundation,” says Colin. “I am very excited to bring more awareness of the foundation to the community in the coming years.” Colin made his Broadway debut by performing in the closing night production of Les Miserables. In 1999, Colin appeared numerous times on “The Rosie O’Donnell Show.” He has also raised funds and awareness for Rosie’s Theatre Kids, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Pulse of Orlando, The Legacy Theatre, Make-A-Wish, Art House Astoria, Melissa Marattoli Hogan Foundation, Stand Up and Speak Out, and Madison Arts Barn. Colin is currently the Artistic Director for Tabor Arts, Director of the Spring Musical at Branford High School, and owner/operator of Colin Sheehan Events.

Branford Community Foundation (BCF)
We strive to support Branford in every way possible by donating to a wide range of causes, from basic needs to the arts. Your help is needed more than ever before! Support our mission by calling 203.444.4898 or clicking here today.

Happy Thanksgiving!

To read about the latest news at BCF, click here.