November at QANC
Hello Neighbor!
In this season of gratitude, we want to take a moment to thank you for being part of our community. Our kids are stepping into their best selves, and your support helps foster these moments of growth, connection, and joy. Our work is grounded in the voices of our community, and your partnership strengthens that foundation. Thank you!
Want to get more involved? Join us for Giving Brewsday at Five Churches Brewing to learn about volunteer opportunities. We’ll also be testing your Kwanzaa knowledge with some trivia and games.
Watoto At Work
Twice a week, our three-hour Watoto sessions give children the chance to explore and express their creative voices. Through dance, drumming, storytelling, and collaborative projects, they’re building both confidence and community.
Our lessons center around the Kwanzaa principles, such as Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics). After learning about how communities uplift one another through shared resources and mutual support, the kids got into small groups to envision the kinds of businesses they would create to strengthen their own neighborhoods.
Then it was time to get creative. From fashion boutiques to well-stocked pharmacies, each team designed a collage representing their imagined storefront—complete with logos, colors, and thoughtful details. Check out a few of their creative “stores” below!
Kwanzaa is Around the Corner
Rehearsals are underway for our annual Kwanzaa Celebration. The kids have been practicing new songs, doing script read-throughs, and learning brand-new dances choreographed by our own Taylar Mills. They can’t wait to share what they’ve learned about the meaning and magic of Kwanzaa.
The performance is scheduled for 4:00 PM on December 14th at New Britain High School. We’ll see you there!
Embracing Aretha at the CT Rhythm & Blues Festival
Before diving into Kwanzaa rehearsals, Watoto had a chance to warm up on a big stage. Our youth performed at the Connecticut Rhythm & Blues Festival alongside celebrated artists like Sugaray Rayford and Vaneese Thomas. Joined by Nzinga’s Daughters’ R&B band, they sang crowd-favorites like The Doobie Brothers’ “Black Water” and a spirited rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “Spirit in the Dark.” Their performance even had audience members up and dancing!
Watch their performance here.
We are so grateful for your continued support. Thank you for cheering on our young people as they learn, grow, and shine.
