Shepherds to Honor Darien’s Tammy Taylor with Founder’s Award

On Thursday evening, October 11th, Shepherds, a mentoring and scholarship non-profit based in Bridgeport, will honor two of its most experienced and dedicated mentors, Tammy Taylor of Darien and Greg Dillon of North Haven, at its gala at The Inn at Longshore in Westport.

The evening twill feature the highly respected TV journalist and co-anchor of ABC News’ Nightline, Byron Pitts, speaking on his life experience growing up in inner city Baltimore and overcoming the personal challenges of illiteracy and a speech Impediment. Well-known, NBC 4 New York Weatherman, Dave Price, will serve as Emcee for the event.

Shepherds supports inner-city teens from the New Haven and Bridgeport areas and empowers them to build a foundation for future success by providing 4 year scholarships to a college preparatory education at Notre Dame West Haven High School and Kolbe Cathedral High Schools, academic and life skill programs, and the support of a committed Shepherds mentor.

Darien’s Tammy Taylor has been a mentor since 2002. She was introduced to Shepherds shortly after 9/11 and was inspired to try and do something good in her own backyard. Since then, she has been proud to see Curtia, Chinkini & Ugonna graduate from high school and move on to college. A valued board member since 2012, Ms. Taylor has served as Chair of the Mentoring Committee overseeing all mentoring activities including recruitment, training and support.

Shepherds has become a family affair for the Taylors – husband Lou, a former partner with Paulson & Company, joined the Board in 2015 as Treasurer. Son, Jack served as a mentor to Zaid Arpico, a 2015 graduate of Kolbe Cathedral High School and a senior at Fairfield University.

Tammy’s commitment is unwavering. “What keeps me motivated to stay involved is my firm belief that every young adult, no matter what their background, deserves a shot at pursuing their dreams through their education. Nothing gives me greater joy and satisfaction than seeing our kids, often overcoming significant struggles during their four years, receive that high school diploma and have the college that they’ll be attending announced at Kolbe’s graduation ceremony! The look of pure pride and happiness on their faces makes all the time spent worthwhile.”

Visit www.shepherdsmentors.org or call 203-367-4273 to purchase tickets to experience and celebrate Shepherds success at the Anniversary dinner or to learn more about Shepherds sponsorship and mentoring opportunities.