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Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/real-angels-at-christmas-angels-over-connecticut-
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What happens when a child dreads the question, “What did you get for Christmas?”
Tony Franklin remembers hiding the truth that he received nothing. That childhood experience sets the stage for a heartfelt conversation about financial hardship, dignity, and the power of community.
Tony and co-host Chris P. Reed welcome Susan Mazer of Charter Oak Cultural Center and Bruce Scotti of Angels Over Connecticut. Together, they explore how an unforgettable Christmas celebration and access to free arts education help Hartford-area children feel seen, valued, and supported.
Hear why the holidays can be painful for struggling families, how these experiences support parents and grandparents, and why generosity matters long after the decorations come down.
Whether you can give $10, volunteer an afternoon, or share your skills, this episode offers a place to start.
▶︎ In This Episode
0:00 Opening: When children stop looking forward to Christmas
03:00 Meet Susan Mazer and Bruce Scotti
07:00 Creating a Christmas children can look forward to
10:00 Free arts education at Charter Oak Cultural Center
12:00 Tony’s story: The Christmas he received nothing
14:00 Inside the Angels Over Connecticut celebration
17:00 What the experience means to parents and grandparents
23:00 How donations make the celebration possible
25:00 Supporting families in shelters and veterans’ families
28:00 What inspires a life of giving?
31:00 Why arts education should be accessible to every child
33:00 Are children being priced out of opportunity?
36:00 Making generosity a year-round commitment
38:00 Small donations, meaningful impact
42:00 Give your time, start small, help someone
44:00 How to donate, volunteer, and connect
47:00 Tony’s Tidbit: Every child deserves joy and possibility
48:00 LESS: Learn, Empathize, Share, Stop
🔗 Resources
GET INVOLVED
Angels Over Connecticut: https://www.angelsoverct.org/
Charter Oak Cultural Center: https://charteroakcenter.org/
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