Westborough Connects outlines volunteer programs, community events and 2023 Civic Pride recognition

Kelly Petrella, executive director of Westborough Connects, presented to the Economic Development Committee on the nonprofit’s role in volunteer engagement and community programming.

Petrella described Westborough Connects as a grassroots 501(c)(3) founded in 2017, staffed by three people (two full-time equivalents), that serves as a convener and connector among local businesses, schools, nonprofits and town committees. She told the committee the group’s free newsletter reaches nearly 2,000 people with approximately a 60% monthly open rate.

Petrella highlighted several programs: Westboro for Life/Stay Connect Thrive (an adult-focused community fair), Westboro Unplugs (a week of in-person events promoting reduced screen time, now in its seventh year), and a bridging differences project that hosts community conversations to improve listening skills. She also announced a first-time community iftar dinner with 135 registered participants and said the group is planning a book club and a series of mini-courses.

Committee members asked Westborough Connects to help recruit younger volunteers and to assist town departments and boards with filling committee vacancies. Petrella offered to coordinate outreach at the weekly farmers market and to share volunteer-signup tools that have worked in past campaigns.

Petrella credited collaboration with local elected representatives (Representative Hannah Kane, Representative Kate Donahue and Senator Michael Moore were listed as cosponsors of one event) and with groups such as the Rotary and the library. She closed by inviting EDC ambassadors to host tables and promote EDC programs at upcoming events.

The presentation produced several offers of support from committee members and concrete suggestions for cross-promotion and volunteer recruitment; no formal action was taken.