AFSCME Council 4 Member Helps Bring “Glimmers of Hope” to Waterford
WATERFORD, CT — In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, our AFSCME Council 4 members are working to ensure that the residents of Waterford feel seen, heard, and supported.
AFSCME Council 4 is proud to spotlight Joe Trelli and Mindy Stone, dedicated members of Local 818-062 (Waterford Municipal Employees), for their pivotal role in launching “Glimmers of Hope.” This effort invites residents to share anonymous notes of encouragement with fellow community members. This new community-driven initiative is designed to weave a stronger social fabric across the town through the simple yet profound power of anonymous encouragement.
As AFSCME Council 4 members, Joe and Mindy’s work exemplifies how public service professionals go above and beyond their job titles to make a real difference in people’s lives. By supporting programs that uplift neighbors during difficult times, they are helping ensure that no one feels alone or overlooked. Joe’s and Mindy’s project reflects the values AFSCME members live every day: service, compassion, and a heartfelt commitment to the well-being of our shared community.
What is “Glimmers of Hope?”
The initiative, conceived by Mindy and then spearheaded by Joe in his role as a Program Coordinator with Waterford Youth & Family Services (WYFS), invites residents of all ages to share handwritten notes of kindness. Whether it’s a quote that helped someone through a dark day, a simple "you are doing great," or a message of solidarity, these notes are collected and shared with fellow community members who may be navigating difficult times.
The goal is simple: to create small, unexpected moments of joy—"glimmers"—that remind people they are part of a caring community.
Service Beyond the Job Description
Joe’s and Mindy’s work with "Glimmers of Hope" is a perfect example of how our union members view their roles. For our members, working for the Waterford Youth and Family Services isn't just about managing schedules or administrative tasks; it’s about identifying the emotional and social needs of the community and finding creative ways to meet them.
“Our members always look for the 'extra' way to help,” said a representative from Local 818-062. “By supporting programs like this, they help ensure that no resident—from our youth to our seniors—feels alone or overlooked. This is exactly what public service is about.”
Read The Day article here.