The Nest/A Little Compassion Inc. Bringing The Community Together

DEEP RIVER, CT — Holding hands with the community, before, during and post Covid-19, the Nest Coffee House, run by A Little Compassion Inc. non-profit, has quickly become a mainstay of the downtown Deep River landscape. Currently, they are gearing up for their annual Water Lantern fundraiser, which is happening September 25th from 5:30-8 p.m. It is their largest fundraiser of the year and they are hopeful that it is a huge success.

Staffed by individuals with varying disabilities, The Nest was designed as an all-inclusive safe space, where all community members can come together, enjoy nibbles, coffee, shakes, ice cream and each other.

Weathering the Covid storm with grit and gratitude, the Nest was able to retain all staff members during the trying time. This is something that Jane Moen, Executive Director of A Little Compassion, is particularly proud of.

She is also proud of all that her staff has been able to do and how they were able to pivot, change and adapt to all that was happening over the last year, especially the creation of a boutique showcasing and selling goods and wares exclusively made by the staff at The Nest.

"This last year has truly been amazing and I am so proud of all of us," said Moen.

With things back in full swing, the gatherings and events at The Nest are back at it, with trivia night, adult coloring programs, open mic nights and a new program, Robotics night. Finding that their program had a far-reaching effect on others, The Nest has decided to keep their, "Express Your Stress," program online so others who are not in the Deep River area can remain part of the program.

"We have had a lot of success with our programs and we are so happy that so many people have supported us and gotten involved in our programs," said Moen, who is hopeful that this year's Water Lantern Fundraiser will also be a friendraiser.

Last year $23,000 was raised at the Water Lantern event and this year the goal is to supersede that and raise $30,000. The event is once again being hosted by Sarah Cody with WTNH News 8 and it will be held both in person at Plattwood Park in Deep River as well as live-streamed.

"We want to make sure that everyone who wants to be part of this event can be, so we made the decision to make it in-person and remote," explained Moen. She said the Water Lantern celebration showcases The Nest/A Little Compassion Inc's mission to change the lives of young adults with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities or neurodiversity.

"We believe that every young adult should have the opportunity to work, play and thrive in their own community. By purchasing a lantern you are supporting young adults and their journey!

Early Bird registration for Water Lantern 2021 is happening now. You can decorate your lantern however you would like; with life affirmations, dedications to loved ones, poems, mantras and goals.

Click the link below to register. Save money now with our early bird discount till 8/15. More info and registration link is below!

http://ow.ly/vj6U50FCtsb.