Avangrid, UI, SCG, CNG Bring Local Nonprofits Together for Community Connections Fair
Event creates new opportunities for volunteerism, board service, and collaboration with nonprofits in Connecticut
ORANGE, Conn. — October 2, 2026 — United Illuminating (UI), Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG), and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG), subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc., hosted 19 local nonprofit organizations for the Community Connections: Board & Volunteer Recruitment Fair, an event designed to strengthen community partnerships and expand opportunities for volunteer service across Connecticut.
“This event went far beyond volunteer recruitment,” said Frank Reynolds, President and CEO of UI, SCG, and CNG. “The Community Connections Fair was about creating a space where nonprofits could network, collaborate, and feel supported. Our employees care deeply about the communities we serve, and this event helped spark new connections that will strengthen local organizations with long term partnership.”
The fair brought together organizations focused on housing, food security, youth services, and more. This provided them with the opportunity to meet employees seeking meaningful ways to give back, as well as connect with one another, share resources, and build new relationships. Nonprofits at the fair shared information about volunteer roles, board openings, professional skill needs, and long‑term engagement opportunities.
“Events like this help build stronger communities,” said Pablo Colón, Director of Corporate Citizenship and Executive Director of the Avangrid Foundation. “When nonprofits have the chance to collaborate and when employees can directly engage with them, it creates lasting partnerships that amplify impact across the region.”
UI, SCG, CNG, and Avangrid employees are encouraged to support the communities where they live and work. That commitment includes philanthropic giving through the Avangrid Foundation, corporate donations, employee giving, and volunteerism. A key part of that commitment is the Energized for Good program, which expands opportunities for employees to volunteer and give back. Through this initiative, the Avangrid Foundation donates $15 per employee volunteer hour to qualifying organizations, up to 100 hours per employee.
“We are looking for great people to help us make a difference in our community,” said John Torres, Executive Director of Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders. “This fair brought many community partners together to showcase their work and gain the support we need to carry out our missions. We appreciate the opportunity to network with other organizations, meet prospective volunteers face-to-face, and spend time connecting with others that are dedicated to making a positive impact.”
Media Contact:
Angela Baccaro