It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Keeler Tavern Museum History Center in Ridgefield, CT gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Ridgefield, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Wonderful agency, great caregivers, responsive, personal. Would have given 5+ but please pay your”
“It is a pleasure to write this! The BEST way to describe your staff:--Pleasant—congenial. Choosing”
“I am writing on behalf of my family to tell you how appreciative we are”
“Your service was timely and most satisfactory !, I'll definitely keep you in mind for”
“Thank you so much for everything. Mom is not ready to take the step to”
“Thank you so much for your kind, personalized service. My mother was always resistive to”
“This company is courteous and very compassionate when it comes to caring for your loved”
“My experience interacting with Always Best Care far surpassed my expectations. They’re polite and courageous”
“I am sending you some of my thoughts about Always Best Care now that I”
“I have learned so much with having you and your staff care for my mother.”
“Excellent company and high levels of customer service!”
“I forgot to tell you that I miss your compassion toward your people. You positive”
“I just wanted to shoot you a quick email expressing our thoughts about Mary, who”
“Thank you so much for your kind, personalized service. My mother was always resistive to”
“I am a current client of this provider Thank you for all of your help over”
“Other Your service was timely and most satisfactory! I’ll definitely keep you in mind for future”
“I am a past client of this provider Shame on me for not writing sooner. The”
“I am a past client of this provider My Mom’s last 15 months were made easier”
“Other We would like to express our appreciation and thanks for the in-home care that Always”
“Other I just wanted express our thoughts about Mary, who was the caregiver for the weekend.”
“I am a current client of this provider Thank you so much for your kind, personalized”
“I interviewed this provider I have learned so much with having you and your staff care”
“I am a past client of this provider I was so happy with the services which”
“Excellent company and high levels of customer service!”
“Wonderful agency, great caregivers, responsive, personal. Would have given 5+ but please pay your caregivers every week not every other week. They are dedicated and deserve to be paid weekly. They are the only agency that pays biweekly…. Thank you”
“It is a pleasure to write this! The BEST way to describe your staff:--Pleasant—congenial. Choosing Always Best Care was one our better decisions. You have sent us the perfect people to help my wife. I am grateful for that. Best wishes for continued success.”
“I am writing on behalf of my family to tell you how appreciative we are of Always Best Care and your services. These have not been the best of times for my family and especially hard on my Mom but we take great comfort knowing you are there to help. Our caretaker has been wonderful since my Dad was sent to River Glen in Southbury and from the very beginning of our ordeal. My Mom is extremely protective of my Dad and has always requested for Judy to help out with my Dad. To me that is the biggest proof of our confidence that has been my Mom's faith in her. Anything we have asked of her she has delivered and shown what most can't - that she really cares. Your Professional staff is a pleasure to work with - adapting schedules, applying payments quickly, and always courteous. I felt like great service should be made aware of and should set a standard that Always Best Care always seems to meet..”
“Your service was timely and most satisfactory !, I'll definitely keep you in mind for future needs.”
“Thank you so much for everything. Mom is not ready to take the step to accepting in-home help yet, but I can assure you that when she is, you will be our agency of choice. Knowing that you will be able to assist us when the time comes makes me feel so much better about all of this. For me, it makes a big difference to actually know someone who is in charge and I think that will make a difference with my Mom too.”
“Thank you so much for your kind, personalized service. My mother was always resistive to someone coming into her home to help care for her, but she is very, very pleased. Not only does she have someone to keep her company and meet her physical needs—her kitchen is looking cleaner than I have seen it in a while. Thank you again. Your kind manner was reassuring to my mother and to me, and you have made the process of caring for my mother at home easy and provided me with much needed relief so that I can actually return to work with a calm mind.”
“This company is courteous and very compassionate when it comes to caring for your loved ones. They are available 24/7 to help you fill all your caregiving needs and have a great pool of caregivers. The office staff is friendly, very supportive and they will go above and beyond to provide their customers the best service around. I would highly recommend them for any of your Homecare needs.”
“My experience interacting with Always Best Care far surpassed my expectations. They’re polite and courageous and always available 24/7 to answer questions and respond in an emergency situation.”
“I am sending you some of my thoughts about Always Best Care now that I have had time to reflect. Mom’s move to Assisted Living has gone very well and I’d like you to know:--From the initial home meeting and throughout my mother’s care, everyone was extremely personable, professional and knowledgeable of the home care industry. --ABC matched caregivers to my Mother’s needs and personality and we (and my Mother) were very happy with the care received and with the communication between caregivers and family.--Although my Mother is in Memory Care now, she still remembers ‘her ladies’ that not only assisted in her care, but more importantly, offered friendship. We would be very happy to be used as a reference if needed!”
“I have learned so much with having you and your staff care for my mother. I never would have expected her to rally so much after my father’s death. But it’s amazing what loving care can do –just amazing! Tracy and I cannot thank you enough – you have helped us see how to make our mother’s last days as pleasant and meaningful as possible–which is not only good for her but also for her whole family. I and my boys and husband, and my sister and her son and his family, we can all have time to connect with my mother that will surely enrich our lives forever—and that is such a precious gift! Thank you”
“Excellent company and high levels of customer service!”
“I forgot to tell you that I miss your compassion toward your people. You positive and helpful approach toward them is admirable. I did not have such luck with the local companies in MA, lacking good organization and consideration to the clients and the care givers. It is not an easy job accomplish such a success like yours.”
“I just wanted to shoot you a quick email expressing our thoughts about Mary, who was the caregiver for the weekend. We all thought she was wonderful!! I think her biggest strength is that she “sees the work”, needs little/to no direction, offers to take things out of our hands, is a true-go-getter. For Billie, this type of help is great since she feels like she can take some time to rest and trust all is okay. Mary works hard and is also very patient. I really think Mary is a natural dealing with elderly. She is patient and kind! Anyway, what I wanted to ask is if Mary can be the consistent caregiver for the weekends. The other 4 caregivers that I have met are also very nice. We would like Mary as much as possible as she is punctual, and as I mentioned before, ‘sees what needs doing”. She is focused on what she can do to help. She doesn’t just sit there next to Bill, she has eyes in the back of her head and goes the extra mile. Anything that needs to get done, she says “no wait, let me do it’—if she hasn’t already initiated it herself. She seems to have endless energy and never complained. I just felt compelled to drop you a this note to let you know how impressed we were with her. Thanks”
“Thank you so much for your kind, personalized service. My mother was always resistive to someone coming into her home to help care for her, but she is very, very pleased. Not only does she have someone to keep her company and meet her physical needs—her kitchen is looking cleaner than I have seen it in a while. Thank you again. Your kind manner was reassuring to my mother and to me, and you have made the process of caring for my mother at home easy and provided me with much needed relief so that I can actually return to work with a calm mind.”
“I am a current client of this provider Thank you for all of your help over the last few weeks. Your caregivers were all terrific and I just don’t know what we would have done without you.”
“Other Your service was timely and most satisfactory! I’ll definitely keep you in mind for future needs.”
“I am a past client of this provider Shame on me for not writing sooner. The days go by so fast –and thanks to your good care I am back to doing things for myself and being busy. Did my own deck this year! And other gardening ---feels good! Have started walking 3 times a week at the track! The big 90 will be here in October ---and I am going to be ready to celebrate it! Thank you again for all your help. It’s good to know it is there when I need it.”
“I am a past client of this provider My Mom’s last 15 months were made easier with the diligent and devoted care provided by Scheryl and your support to come up with replacements when she needed time off. Scheryl was caring and compassionate for both my Mom and her sister when she came to stay. They had a really nice bond. Both the ladies were ever grateful for Scheryl’s attention, conversation, cooking and friendship. Larry and I send best wish and sincere thanks!”
“Other We would like to express our appreciation and thanks for the in-home care that Always Best Care is providing our parents. You have guided us through this very difficult time and have helped us deal with my mother’s illness and her inability to care for my dad. Your caregivers are very capable and caring, and your staff is competent and thorough. We believe this makes your company invaluable to families with loved ones in need of assistance. We would recommend Always Best Care to anybody in search of quality care for their loved one. Thank you for all you and your staff do.”
“Other I just wanted express our thoughts about Mary, who was the caregiver for the weekend. We all thought she was wonderful!! I think her biggest strength is that she “sees the work”, needs little/to no direction, offers to take things out of our hands, and is a true-go-getter. For Billie, this type of help is great since she feels like she can take some time to rest and trust all is okay. Mary works hard and is also very patient. I really think Mary is a natural dealing with elderly. She is patient and kind! Anyway, what I wanted to ask is if Mary can be the consistent caregiver for the weekends. The other 4 caregivers that I have met are also very nice. We would like Mary as much as possible as she is punctual, and as I mentioned before, ‘sees what needs doing”. She is focused on what she can do to help. She doesn’t just sit there next to Bill, she has eyes in the back of her head and goes the extra mile. Anything that needs to get done, she says “no wait, let me do it’—if she hasn’t already initiated it herself. She seems to have endless energy and never complained. I just felt compelled to drop you a this note to let you know how impressed we were with her. Thanks”
“I am a current client of this provider Thank you so much for your kind, personalized service. My mother was always resistant to have someone come into her home to help care for her, but she is very, very pleased with Betsy. Not only does she have someone to keep her company and meet her physical needs—her kitchen is looking cleaner than I have seen it in a while. Thank you again. Your kind manner was reassuring to my mother and to me, and you have made the process of caring for my mother at home easy, and provided me with much needed relief so that I can actually return to work with a calm mind.”
“I interviewed this provider I have learned so much with having you and your staff care for my mother. I never would have expected her to rally so much after my father’s death. But it’s amazing what loving care can do –just amazing! Tracy and I cannot thank you enough – you have helped us see how to make our mother’s last days as pleasant and meaningful as possible–which is not only good for her but also for her whole family. I and my boys and husband, and my sister and her son and his family, we can all have time to connect with my mother that will surely enrich our lives forever—and that is such a precious gift! Thank you”
“I am a past client of this provider I was so happy with the services which Angela provided! She was very courteous, hands-on and would do anything I asked her to do. She was pleasure. I enjoyed having her work for me.”
“Excellent company and high levels of customer service!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Sturges Park in Ridgefield, CT with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Posa Ristorante Vineria or visit Lounsbury House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Ridgefield, CT, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Ridgefield, CT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Ridgefield, CT 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Ridgefield's No Kings rally at Veterans Park Saturday unites residents in "defense of democracy," with speakers and music.RIDGEFIELD, CT — Ridgefield residents will gather at Veterans Park this Saturday, Oct. 18, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. for a “No Kings” rally and march — part of a statewide movement urging the protection of democracy and resistance to authoritarianism.The local event, organized by a coalition of community groups under the auspices of Indivisible and led by Ridgefield Resistanc...
RIDGEFIELD, CT — Ridgefield residents will gather at Veterans Park this Saturday, Oct. 18, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. for a “No Kings” rally and march — part of a statewide movement urging the protection of democracy and resistance to authoritarianism.
The local event, organized by a coalition of community groups under the auspices of Indivisible and led by Ridgefield Resistance, joins similar demonstrations planned in towns across Connecticut this weekend. Each is inspired by the national “No Kings” initiative, which organizers describe as a collective stand against political corruption, threats to democratic institutions, and efforts to undermine the rule of law.
Ridgefield Resistance founder Ed Federman, a town resident and psychologist, said the gathering aims to “activate and validate” people who feel discouraged by recent political developments.
“Many people are feeling that the onslaught is so powerful and so relentless that they feel kind of hopeless,” Federman said. “We want to show that they’re not alone — that there’s a community here that believes democracy is worth defending.”
Federman said the rally will include presentations from:
Attendees are encouraged to wear black in solidarity — though Federman noted with a laugh that “someone told everyone to wear yellow yesterday, so we’ll see.” Participants may also consider attending in"Handmaid’s Tale" cosplay, a symbolic nod to the themes of government overreach and personal freedom, Federman said.
Federman said one focus of the event will be the “250 Minutes for Democracy” campaign. The initiative asks participants to dedicate 250 minutes each month to civic engagement — from writing letters to voting outreach — in honor of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.
"We want to empower people to take small, consistent actions,” Federman said. “It’s about transforming frustration into forward motion.”
“No Kings” rallies are scheduled in over three dozen Connecticut towns this weekend, including New Haven, Hartford, and Danbury. The coordinated demonstrations mark the anniversary of the 1774 passage of the Connecticut Charter, emphasizing that “the nation’s founders rejected monarchy — and we must, too.”
In Ridgefield, Federman said the rally will close with a short march and a call to continued participation.
“The work of democracy isn’t something that happens every four years,” he said. “It happens in every community, every day.”
The Ridgefield No Kings Rally takes place from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Veterans Park, located at the corner of Governor Street and East Ridge Road.
Andrea Beebe shares with Patch why she should be elected to the Ridgefield Board Of Finance.RIDGEFIELD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.Candidate's Name: Andrea BeebeWhat office are you seeking? Board of FinanceWhat town do you live in? Ridgefield...
RIDGEFIELD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.
Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.
Candidate's Name: Andrea Beebe
What office are you seeking? Board of Finance
What town do you live in? Ridgefield
Occupation: Retired High School Special Education Teacher- 12 years
Family: I have been married to David Beebe since 1983. We relocated to Connecticut from Dallas, TX in 1987 and moved to Ridgefield in 1988. David is also a retired teacher. We have two sons, JD and Ryan both of whom were educated in the Ridgefield Public Schools graduating from the high school in 2003 and 2005 respectively. JD and his wife Liz relocated from NYC to Ridgefield and share three daughters. Ryan and his wife Lindsay live in London, UK with their daughter. In 2016, we sold our home of nearly 30 years and downsized moving into town which was a great decision for us.
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No
Previous public office, appointive or elective: It has been my honor to serve on several boards and commissions: The Ridgefield Prevention Council, The Lyme Disease Task Force, The Commission on Aging, and currently serve on the Affordable Housing Committee.
Why are you seeking this office? I put my name forward for a seat on the Board of Finance because I believe Ridgefield deserves thoughtful, responsible leadership that listens. Over the years, I’ve heard from many residents—especially seniors—who are deeply concerned about the growing number of capital projects, escalating costs, and rising property taxes. These issues don’t just affect budgets; they affect lives. I am not afraid to ask the tough questions and/or challenge the status quo. During my two terms on the Commission on Aging, I had the privilege of listening to our senior community share their fears about affordability and the possibility of being priced out of the town they’ve long called home. Their voices stayed with me. I want to be a voice for them—and for all residents who feel unheard in the face of financial decisions that shape our future.
My goal is to bring transparency, fiscal responsibility, and compassion to the Board of Finance. Ridgefield is a remarkable town, and I’m committed to helping it remain a place where people of all ages can thrive.
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: The single most pressing Issue facing my constituents is addressing the expected capital projects - Public Safety Building and Public-School Buildings- and the future associated costs. We must approach this responsibility with thoughtful planning and, when necessary, creative solutions. These may include phased renovations, public-private partnerships (if applicable), or strategic bond initiatives—all aimed at preserving educational excellence while minimizing the financial burden on taxpayers. It is crucial to have community engagement and transparent dialogue will be essential. Ridgefield’s strength lies in its ability to come together, evaluate priorities, and invest wisely in the future we all share.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? I will bring a commonsense approach to my work and understanding of the budgetary process to the Board of Finance. I will work to share with our constituents what is being asked of the BOF and explain the decisions that are presented to the Board of Selectpersons. I am committed to working in a collaborative manner to reach a positive direction using best practices for the town.
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
1. Champion Fiscal Responsibility
• Ask the tough questions and scrutinize spending to ensure every dollar serves Ridgefield wisely.
• Promote long-term financial planning that balances needs with sustainability.
2. Engage the Public in Budgeting
• Foster transparency by opening the budget process to residents.
• Actively listen to community concerns and incorporate their input with care and respect.
3. Demystify the Process
• Use multiple platforms—public forums, town meetings, newsletters, and digital outreach—to explain how decisions are made.
• Empower residents with knowledge so they can participate meaningfully.
4. Preserve Ridgefield’s Character
• Protect the charm and heritage of our small town while embracing smart, thoughtful growth.
• Support development that enhances quality of life without compromising what makes Ridgefield special.
5. Make the Numbers Work
• Prioritize clarity and honesty in financial reporting.
• Use transparency as the foundation for making tough but necessary decisions.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? When my family moved to Ridgefield in 1988, we brought with us not just dreams, but the determination to make them sustainable. My husband ran his own business, and I took on the dual role of managing both his business accounts and our household finances. Each month presented a new set of challenges—fluctuating income, unexpected expenses, and the ever-present need to prioritize. I developed a system grounded in discipline and adaptability. Mortgage, utilities, healthcare, car payments, and taxes were non-negotiables. Groceries and school-related costs were carefully budgeted, often requiring creative solutions to stretch every dollar. Through it all, we remained committed to our financial obligations, steadily building and maintaining a strong credit rating.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? The best advice I received was to never be afraid to ask a question or ask for help. Both of these require humility, the ability to listen, and a desire to improve and learn.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions? Simply, I love Ridgefield. I have called it home for over 37 years and look forward to many more memories. I deeply care about the people and the town's future. Ridgefield has been a wonderful place to raise a family and now the best place to "age in place". I am willing to do whatever I can to make this true for the town's individuals and families. Let's set aside our differences and work together to maintain what makes Ridgefield special.
Mike Rettger shares with Patch why he should be elected to the Ridgefield Board of FinanceRIDGEFIELD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.Candidate's Name: Mike RettgerWhat office are you seeking? Board of FinanceWhat town do you live in? Ridgefield...
RIDGEFIELD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.
Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.
Candidate's Name: Mike Rettger
What office are you seeking? Board of Finance
What town do you live in? Ridgefield
Occupation: Retired. Previously 35+ years of experience in the financial services industry in various senior management, operational, financial analysis, and regulatory roles.
Family: Yes, married with three grown children, all married. My wife and I met in college in 1973, and this year celebrated our 45th wedding anniversary.
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? My wife is a member of the Ridgefield Zoning Board of Appeals
Previous public office, appointive or elective: I have served on the Board of Finance since December 2019. Currently hold the position of Board chair
Ridgefield Assistant Town Treasurer, 4 yearsMember Ridgefield Pension Commission, 3 yearsMember Ridgefield 2023 Charter Revision CommissionMember Ridgefield Form of Government Committee, 2024-2025
Why are you seeking this office? Offering my skills, time, and knowledge as a volunteer is an important element of my personal ethic. In my 5+ years of service as a member of the Board of Finance, I believe I have made many meaningful contributions, both in annual budget deliberations and in various aspects of financial analysis and operational controls as my part of the Board’s responsibility for monitoring the financial activities of the town and the school district.
My time on the BOF has been personally rewarding for me and I think of value to the residents of the town, and I would be pleased if the voters provide me the chance to continue to serve them in this manner for another term.
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: Finding the balance between maintaining high quality town services and schools, and constraining the growth in budgets and tax bills.
I feel this goal can be achieved through smart budgeting, establishing strong relationships and active on-going dialog with the Board of Selectpersons and the Board of Education, and actively monitoring town department performance to assure that favorable revenue outcomes and unused budget appropriations are returned to town coffers so they can be applied to reduce the next year’s tax rate calculation.
This process has resulted in recommended annual budgets that have maintained and in some areas expanded resident services while keeping the growth in the tax rate and tax levy below the rate of inflation. I feel that result has been recognized and validated by town voters, who have approved these proposed budgets by a 70% or more majority each of the past five years.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? That is a question for the voters to decide. My goal here is to define myself, my skills, and what I have and can contribute by serving on the Board of Finance, so that voters have a good basis for making their judgements when going to the polls.
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign? I plan to address things that I think the Board of Finance needs to work on over the next few years, beyond the annual budget, that will help our planning and decision-making.
We (the Board of Finance) need to work with the town and the school district to reduce off-cycle capital budget requests, which have become more numerous in recent years. While each request is well-justified in its own right, in aggregate these requests make it difficult to mange to overall picture of the town’s capital borrowing and to assess the impact of that borrowing on future tax rates.
I am also strongly committed to continuing to build upon work we’ve already started to develop a multi-year perspective in assessing both annual operating and annual capital budgets proposed by the town and the school district. This perspective takes work to accomplish but will result in better budget results for residents and taxpayers over the longer term.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? Throughout my career and in my various volunteer efforts, I believe I am recognized as a “go-to” person with a broad base of knowledge, as someone who always works across all levels of the organization for the good of the organization, and as someone who can be relied on to get things done, and done well. I believe that I have demonstrated those qualities to the benefit of the work of the Board of Finance since becoming a member in 2019.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? Not so much advice as personal behavior that has served as a model –- My first manager and mentor taught me that while coming up with answers is an important part of any job, “thinking out over the horizon”-- that is, identifying the questions that haven’t yet been asked and will need answers in the future -- can be even more valuable in achieving progress and good outcomes in any endeavor. This mindset has been a guiding force for me in anything I do.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions? I am a 33-year resident of Ridgefield, along with my wife Terry. We raised our three children here, and have always been thankful for ourselves and for them that we chose Ridgefield for our family.
Debra Franceschini shares with Patch why she should be elected to the Ridgefield Board Of Education.RIDGEFIELD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.Candidate's Name: Debra FranceschiniWhat office are you seeking? Board of EducationWhat town do you live in? Ridg...
RIDGEFIELD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.
Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.
Candidate's Name: Debra Franceschini
What office are you seeking? Board of Education
What town do you live in? Ridgefield
Party Affiliation: Republican
Occupation: Senior Enterprise Account Executive
Family: My Husband Tom, and 2 children Matt and Nina who’ve graduated from the Ridgefield Public School system. My son is now 33 and my daughter is a senior in college.
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No
Previous public office, appointive or elective: I was appointed and reappointed to the Commission on Aging for a 4 year term; appointed and reappointed to the Affordable Housing Committee for a 4 year term; and appointed to the Commission for Accessibility as well for a 4 year term.
Why are you seeking this office? Our students are navigating an increasingly complex world. It’s our responsibility to make sure they have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive, not just academically, but socially, emotionally, and practically.
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: Strengthening ties with parents to ensure they have a regular voice at the table is a priority. I will advocate to revive the Outreach subcommittee we once had and support ongoing parental involvement and outreach sessions. Our town is fortunate to have highly educated parents and residents, and creating a stronger partnership with them is crucial to achieving our goals as a community.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? I’ve been a Ridgefield resident for nearly 25 years. I’ve been on various town commissions and committees. I’m the current chair of the Affordable Housing Committee and sit on Commission for Accessibility. In addition I’ve held board roles with the High School Executive PTA, Meals on Wheels, Rides for Ridgefield and the Commission on Aging.
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign? I will advocate for smart, forward-focused leadership to Ridgefield’s Board of Education because today’s students need more than status quo thinking. They need a system that prepares them for their future.
POLICY & OPERATIONS
-Enforce fiduciary responsibility-Advocate for quarterly Tri-Board meetings-Demand transparency in all decision-making
SPECIAL EDUCATION & FUNDING
-Address unsustainable special education costs-Lobby for more state funding-Explore alternative funding sources-Work with our legislators
EDUCATION & STUDENT DEVELOPMENT
-Expand trade school & dual credit options-Increase preparedness for life after high school-Advocate for equitable education & transitional housing-Promote AI integration for modern learning
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
-Strengthen ties with Ridgefield parents in the decision making process-Encourage their participation in BOE meetings
STUDENT WELLNESS
-Advocate for electronic addiction and reduction support-Tackle student drug use with real policies with community involvement.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? I have established a trusted and proven track record of strengthening partnerships with town government and successfully achieving key milestones as chair of the Affordable Housing Committee. I have expertise in cultivating town relationships, leveraging local resources, and building strategic partnerships.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? You’ll never know the answer unless you ask.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions? As a result of my extensive civic engagement, I bring diverse perspectives and unique points of view to the board that others may not have.
RIDGEFIELD — Housatonic Habitat for Humanity hopes to partner with the town of Ridgefield to construct an affordable building, with units for purchase.The nonprofit organization, which helps families build homes while working with community volunteers and donors, would like to build what they described as three to six units on a vacant, wooded parcel on the corner of Prospect Ridge and Halpin Lane, according to the nonprofit, which recently gave a presentation at the town’s Board of Selectperson’s meeting.&ldq...
RIDGEFIELD — Housatonic Habitat for Humanity hopes to partner with the town of Ridgefield to construct an affordable building, with units for purchase.
The nonprofit organization, which helps families build homes while working with community volunteers and donors, would like to build what they described as three to six units on a vacant, wooded parcel on the corner of Prospect Ridge and Halpin Lane, according to the nonprofit, which recently gave a presentation at the town’s Board of Selectperson’s meeting.
“We took a drive down Halpin Lane and… you have so many different housing types on that one street,” said Marjorie Sobylak, Habitat’s community outreach coordinator, during the presentation. “So it becomes very, very interesting as we start to think about what could be design concepts for this site."
The units, which would only be for purchase and not for rent, could be multiple single structure units or contiguous buildings comprising multiple units, she said.
The town will be scheduling a public hearing to share project details with the community and get feedback and questions. An agreement would then be presented at a town meeting for approval.
Housatonic Habitat for Humanity will present more information about its ideas at the Sept. 17 Board of Selectpersons meeting.
“I think that this is a fantastic opportunity for us to partner together with the town of Ridgefield,” Kristen Keil, executive director for Housatonic Habitat for Humanity, said.
Housatonic Habitat for Humanity serves families that earn between 30% and 80% of the area’s median income — “that’s household income,” Keil said. “So a family of four in Ridgefield, the 80% mark, is $107,000.”
People who earn that salary include nurses, account managers, administrative assistants and first year Ridgefield school teachers, she said.
“These are individuals that we would want in our communities and that we want to support for home ownership,” she said. “These are hard working families. They’re just not making enough money to be able to afford to buy a house.”
The homeowners get a mortgage, principal, interest, taxes and insurance which doesn’t exceed more than 30% of that family’s household income, she said.
“They work 250 hours in what we call sweat equity to prepare them to learn how to take care of their own homes,” she said. Sweat equity is when people help build their own Housatonic Habitat homes. Tasks they perform include painting walls, nailing wood panels and helping install drywall.
“We really reach out to the community and we ask the community to come together to help us build these homes. We do that in multiple different ways. One way is we try to use volunteer labor whenever it’s possible — that could be skilled labor or it could be unskilled labor. We also partner with corporations.”
Housatonic Habitat works with families for their entire time of home ownership, she said.
“Our program is a hand up, not a handout,” she said.
This story has been updated to clarify that the "units" will be available for purchase.
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