The Story Behind Our Mission

Sawubona was founded with a deep commitment to youth and families in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The organization was inspired by trauma-focused missions in South Africa and Jamaica, where creative expression played a crucial role in healing and resilience.

Recognizing the need for similar support in our own community, we brought these practices home to serve local youth.

Our Values

Creativity – Unlocking self-expression and new possibilities.

Community – Strengthening relationships and support networks.

Compassion – Uplifting every child and family with care.

Collaboration – Bringing people together to create lasting impact.

Our Vision

A world where every child is seen, heard, and believed.

Our Mission

To nurture the resilience and mental well-being of youth and families in Bridgeport, Connecticut, through art, music, and creative expression.

Sawubona is dedicated to fostering growth, healing, and empowerment through the arts.

The Team Behind Our Mission

Sawubona is guided by a dedicated team of board members and program leaders, each committed to creating opportunities for youth in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Our team members bring expertise in education, mental health, community development, and the arts, working together to build a stronger, more resilient future for local families.

Charles J. Morgan, MD

PRIVATE PRACTICE
PRESIDENT

"

For me it's about interdependence. We need each other to shine our brightest. It's the joy of being part of a community and sharing our gifts.
EMAIL

Andrew J. Gerber, MD, PHD

PRESIDENT & MEDICAL DIRECTOR, SILVER HILL HOSPITAL
VICE PRESIDENT

"

Sawubona brings us together so that we can listen to and learn from everyone. This is what makes life meaningful.
EMAIL

Deborah A. Caviness

PRESIDENT, BPT-OIC & BIZ HUB 2.0
TREASURER

"

Dr. Morgan's commitment to making a difference in the lives of youth utilizing the power of creative arts which is essential to their mental well-being inspired me to get involved. Sawubona provides a safe outlet for expression, fosters emotional resilience and nurtures a sense of identity and connection.
EMAIL

Michelle Robinson

SILVER HILL HOSPITAL
BOARD SECRETARY

"

I first became involved just assisting with the first Gala, but it soon became clear to me that this was much more than planning a party. It was making a difference in children's lives. Having teens myself, I felt I was in the right place at the right time.
EMAIL

Kendra Carlson, ATR-BC, CLAT

ART THERAPIST, CMS THERAPY GROUP, LLC
CHAIR OF CURRICULUM COMMITTEE

"

When working with students, they learn more about their feelings and how to express themselves, and that can change their worlds!
EMAIL

Karen Brody, 
MD

PRIVATE PRACTICE
BOARD MEMBER

"

I joined the Sawubona board to have the opportunity to work with an incredible group of talented and generous professionals with the shared mission of making a difference in the lives of young people impacted by childhood adversity and to work together to offer programs supporting resilience.
EMAIL

Elizabeth D. Jorgensen

OWNER, INSIGHT COUNSELING, LLC
BOARD MEMBER

"

Sawubona is an ideal program for me to give back to kids and teens in a loving and positive environment. I joined the board to help in any way I can to sustain and build on our mission to connect with a gifted group of professionals who care deeply.
EMAIL

Claudette Kunkes, 
PHD

PRIVATE PRACTICE
BOARD MEMBER

"

Sawubona students and volunteers strive to build a community that helps build fortitude through acceptance, caring and encouragement. As students grow, so do the volunteers...this becomes a healing environment for all.
EMAIL

Darlene Negbenebor, 
MD

PRIVATE PRACTICE
BOARD MEMBER

"

It's deeply rewarding to be a part of an organization that endeavors to provide a space for student self-expression, collaboration and belonging.
EMAIL

Gregg Pauletti

OWNER, RCHI EDUCATION GROUP & NEURSYNCHRONY HEALTH
BOARD MEMBER

"

Sawubona stands for everything I feel is critical in working with kids—that they feel seen and heard. There's no more important part of working with someone, than ensuring they feel valued. I carry this belief in my work everyday and it's fundamental to why I love Sawubona's mission.
EMAIL

Ayana Thomas

IT EXECUTIVE FOR HEALTHCARE
BOARD MEMBER

"

Every student deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. When we nurture their voices and well-being, we empower them to shape their own futures with confidence and purpose.
EMAIL

Diederik J. Van Renesse

EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT, STEINBRECHER EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATES
BOARD MEMBER

"

Working with kids has been my lifelong joy, as they inspire me. I appreciate the opportunity to give back to them and to work alongside other caring professionals through Sawubona.
EMAIL

Denise S. Walsh
, PHD, RN, FAAN

CEO, PAN AFRICAN HIGHER EDUCATION INITIATIVE
BOARD MEMBER

"

To support children as they learn how to make choices and express their feelings and ideas through the arts.
EMAIL

James Rawlins Jr.

Senior Director, Advance Analytics & Customer Insights, Fidelity
BOARD MEMBER

"

Sawbuona provides me with a meaningful opportunity to be part of a team that is committed to helping young people.
EMAIL

Brian P. Mulroy

President, MULROY CONSULTING
BOARD MEMBER

"

My family crossed paths with Dr. Morgan many years ago during a profound time in our lives. We were touched by his unwavering optimism. Describing his vision for Sawubona, I felt compelled to help in any way that I could. Nothing's more rewarding than making a difference in someone's life.
EMAIL

Jessica Alicea-Planas, PhD, MPH, CHES, RN

Associate Professor- Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies, Fairfield University
BOARD MEMBER

"

I joined the board because this is an opportunity to collaborate with an organization that centers youth wellness through art.
EMAIL

Have questions? Send an email.

We’re a nonprofit in Bridgeport, Connecticut, dedicated to empowering youth and teens through creative expression. Our programs in art, music, and storytelling foster resilience, confidence, and mental well-being. Join us in making a difference.

©2025 Sawubona. A 501(c)(3) Organization

Contact Information

  • Phone: (203) 290-1746
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Address: 510 Barnum Ave, #3102 Bridgeport, Connecticut 06608

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Your donation today helps make healing possible and brings expressive arts, therapy, and care to youth and teens in Bridgeport.

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