Building One Community Celebrates 15 Years of Impact at its Benefit Breakfast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Suzanne Wind, Communications Director, Building One Community

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(203) 674-8585 Swind@b1c.org

May 13, 2026 — Building One Community (B1C) — The Center for Immigrant Opportunity welcomed nearly 600 supporters to its 13th Annual Benefit Breakfast, bringing together staff, volunteers, participants, donors, and community leaders for a powerful morning of inspiration, resilience, and collective action in support of immigrant families across Fairfield County.

The event held special significance this year as B1C also celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2026, marking fifteen years of empowering immigrants through education, workforce development, family support services, and immigration legal assistance.

The annual breakfast served as both a celebration of immigrant contributions and a reminder of the tremendous challenges many families face while rebuilding their lives in a new country. As Immigrant Heritage Month begins June 1, the event underscored the importance of creating welcoming, informed, and inclusive communities at the local level.

“The event is an opportunity to stand together as a community and recognize the courage and determination of immigrant families.” said Marissa Muñoz, Executive Director of B1C. “At a time filled with uncertainty for many immigrants, our mission remains to ensure every individual has access to opportunity, support, and the chance to thrive.”

Funds raised from the Benefit Breakfast directly support B1C’s programs and services, which assist immigrants and their families build stable, successful futures. From English language learning and workforce development to legal services and family support, B1C continues to adapt and expand its services to meet the evolving needs of the community.

One of the morning’s most emotional moments came from Fernanda Morena Soto, B1C Community Liaison Coordinator, who shared her personal journey immigrating to the United States and the sacrifices many immigrant families endure in pursuit of safety, opportunity, and stability. She spoke movingly about the life-changing moment of finally receiving her green card — “a piece of plastic, light and ordinary, weighing just a few grams,” she described, “yet carrying the weight of every sacrifice, every fear, and every unknown along the journey.”

Additional participant speakers courageously shared stories of fleeing hardship in their home countries and starting over in the United States. Their testimonies highlighted both the immense obstacles immigrants face and the resilience required to persevere reinforcing the critical role organizations like B1C play in helping families rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Guests also had the opportunity to hear from Muñoz as she reflected on the organization’s future and commitment to growing B1C’s impact in the years ahead.

“As we celebrate 15 years of service, we are looking ahead with intention,” Muñoz added. “We are committed to expanding our reach, strengthening our programs, and continuing to create pathways to opportunity for immigrants throughout our community.”

There is still time to support B1C’s annual fundraising campaign and help ensure immigrant families continue to receive the resources, guidance, and support they need to succeed.

To learn more or make a contribution, visit Building One Community.

About Building One Community

Building One Community (also known as B1C) is a nonprofit organization established in 2011 that provides a comprehensive resource center for immigrants in the greater Stamford area. The mission of Building One Community is to advance the successful integration of immigrants and their families. Since its inception, the organization has served over 22,500 immigrants from 133 countries. B1C provides free services that educate, employ, empower, and engage immigrants and the broader community. Programs offered include English language learning, family services, academic enrichment, immigration legal services, and workforce development programs. Community volunteers, donors, and partnerships are an essential component of the growth of Building One Community. For more information, please visit www.B1C.org.