Annual-Report-2023-2024

Brooker Memorial Executive Director Cathy Coyle will retire effective March 2024 after 20 years leading the local non-profit organization. Board President William J. Marchand announced her retirement decision at Brooker’s Annual Corporator meeting on September 28. As she prepares for her transition into retirement, Coyle said she is confident the organization is in capable hands. Coyle states, “Of the accomplishments I am most proud, one is the leadership team and the staff team I have worked hard to develop and inspire. Brooker will continue to grow and thrive under their competent abilities and passion for their work.” Coyle joined Brooker Memorial as the executive director in 2004, following a 14-year career in health care and non-profit management in New Britain. Board president Bill Marchand said, “Cathy was the right person at the right time for Brooker. The organization has excelled and the community has benefitted as a result of her special blend of compassion, leadership and expertise.” He went on to note that as the second longest serving executive director at Brooker, Cathy’s accomplishments will have a long-term impact on the organization. Some of the highlights of Coyle’s 20 years leading Brooker include: Volunteer corps grew from 36 to 129. Annual fund and special event contributions grew from $2,200 to $188,000. Grants to support programs grew from $2,300 to $114,000 last year. The percentage of corporators who are involved as donors, volunteers, event supporters, or ambassadors increased from 10% to 88%. The 2015 building renovation and building project increased square footage from 10,000 to 16,800 square feet and provided a much needed façade improvement, modernized program space and room for future expansion. The Brooker Board of Managers has named a search committee to recruit the organization’s next executive director. When asked about her future plans she said, “My husband and I are looking forward to traveling and spending more time with friends and family.” Coyle will continue her community work in the Torrington area serving on the boards of The Warner Theatre, Charlotte Hungerford Hospital and The Workman Home and as a member of the Torrington/Winsted Rotary Club. She said she plans to continue her involvement with Brooker as a volunteer.

Beginning April 1, 2023 the Medicaid Continuous Enrollment Provision ends. So, what does that mean? Since the start of the pandemic DSS has not required anyone to do redeterminations to maintain insurance coverage. That will now stop, and families will need to complete the necessary paperwork in order to remain insured. Please watch for mailings from DSS as the deadlines are often very tight and we would hate for any of our families to get to a medical appointment and be told they do not have insurance. If you need help doing re-determination paperwork please reach out to New Opportunities here in Torrington and they can assist. Their phone number is 860-482-9749. Please remember to bring bank statements, paycheck stubs, client ID number, benefit award letters (if you, or dependents are receiving SSI, SSDI, SNAP, or Cash Assistance benefits) for anyone who is asking for assistance or lives in the home. You will also need your username and password (if you have filed electronically before).

In November 2021, Brooker was pleased to announce Cheshire Fitness Zone as the new owner of Brooker’s Center for Children’s Therapy.