At Preferred Utilities in Danbury, Connecticut, we often talk about our products and services and how they make an impact on the environment, but we rarely speak about the impact our organization makes locally. We are so pleased with what we are able to contribute to our community and would like to share the good news.

True to our focus on stewardship, Preferred Utilities is a long-time and enthusiastic sponsor of New Pond Farm Education Center, an environmental education center and working farm, in Redding, CT. New Pond Farm has been dedicated to its educational mission of nearly 40 years.

“On every acre, in all we do, we plant seeds for a lifetime of active engagement with the natural world.”

Their beautiful 102-acre property is the perfect place to bring their mission to life. Each year, they host over 5,000 children and teachers in their active field trip program for area schools; their talented staff members offer close to 200 engaging hands-on programs for adults, families, and children; and they host two exciting summer camps-one for area children and another for urban youth.

Carrying on the wishes of Founder, Carmen Mathews, the organization has a special place in its heart for connecting urban youth with the many wonders of the environment and the farm.

“It is a privilege and an honor to partner with the fine people at New Pond Farm to in opening up opportunities for kids who were born with so few advantages,” says Preferred’s President & CEO, David Bohn.

In the summer, they partner with Danbury’s Sunsational Summer Program and offer a four week camp for students in grades K-4; during the school year they invite high school students from Bridgeport’s Capital Prep Harbor School out to the farm for discovery weekends; and they have a new partnership with a pre-school in Norwalk where staff members will make monthly visits to their classrooms and also host the children on the farm during the seasons. All of this is without costs to the schools or families, thanks to New Pond Farm Education Center’s scholarship program. If you would like to learn more, please visit their website: newpondfarm.org