Connections Peer Support Awarded $20,000 Grant from Robinson Family Foundation

PORTSMOUTH– Connections Peer Support received a $20,000 grant from The Robinson Family Foundation at the fourth annual Duncan Robinson Basketball Clinic on July 18 and 19.

The Robinson Family Foundation is a family-driven organization supporting heart, mind, and body through advocacy, education, and meaningful action. 

The Robinson Family Foundation weekend kicked off with the VIP Tip-Off at Treadwell Mansion followed by The Eli Robinson 3v3 Memorial Tournament, in honor of Eli Robinson, who died by suicide. Connections Peer Support and four other local nonprofit organizations received grants for $20,000 each.

On July 19, the weekend ended with The Duncan Robinson Skills Camp.

“Connections is incredibly grateful to the Robinson Family Foundation for this grant and for their commitment to reducing stigma, normalizing the conversation around mental health and substance use, and preventing suicide,” said Fred Poisson, executive director of Connections Peer Support.

Connections Peer Support plans on using this grant to focus on executive functioning programming, implementing a new text-based warmline initiative, and expanding SMART recovery certifications for all staff. 

“Our focus on executive functioning and supporting the individual in a holistic manner that addresses the cause as opposed to the symptoms has been highly effective," explained Poisson. “We have seen a 38% increase in our attendance as a result of adopting this approach.” 

About the Robinson Family Foundation
Founded by Alex and Monica Robinson in 2021, The Robinson Family Foundation’s primary activity is to support, by contributions, other organizations qualifying for exemption under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The directors choose these organizations based on their knowledge of the organizations’ activities. No contributions, grants, gifts, loans, or scholarships are made to individuals. The foundation does not currently receive applications or conduct programs for donations. For information, visit robinsonfamilyfoundation.org.

About Connections Peer Support
Connections Peer Support in Portsmouth, is a peer-run, trauma-informed support center in Portsmouth offering free emotional support, peer-led groups and community connection for adults navigating mental health challenges. Learn more at https://connectionspeersupport.org/