CROMWELL, Conn. (Oct. 21, 2026) — Students at the Ädelbrook Academy in Cromwell will have new equipment in the art room this school year, thanks to a $5,000 grant from Liberty Bank Foundation. The grant will fund a kiln, a pottery wheel and ceramic tools for the academy’s ceramics unit, which serves students with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
For students at the academy, working with clay is more than an art class. It builds fine motor skills and sensory regulation. It teaches students to follow a multi-step project from start to finish, skills that carry into the classroom, vocational training, and daily life.
Students will take part in weekly sessions starting with studio safety and basic clay techniques and building toward more complex projects and independent creative choices. Instruction is adapted to each student's abilities, learning style and sensory needs, and progress is measured against each student's individualized education plan.
Student work will be displayed at school and community art shows. Functional pieces such as mugs, dishes and dog bowls will be used and sold at Ädelbrook's vocational sites, ÄdelBeans Coffee Shop, Ädelbooks & More and the Ädelbrook Barkery, giving students recognition for their work and giving the community a chance to see their talents firsthand.
"The arts give our students another way to express themselves and build skills," said Alyssa Goduti, President and CEO of Ädelbrook. "We're grateful to Liberty Bank Foundation for investing in our students, fostering growth and creativity, and for being such a consistent partner to Ädelbrook."
“Liberty Bank practices being ‘Community Kind,’ and that means partnering with local organizations to help our communities grow and thrive,” said Liberty Bank President and CEO David W. Glidden, who also serves as President of the Liberty Bank Foundation. “Team Liberty is pleased to support Ädelbrook Academy’s therapeutic ceramic arts program. Art education can help make a difference in the lives of Ädelbrook students, and that will ultimately make our communities better - and brighter.”
Ädelbrook Behavioral and Developmental Services
Ädelbrook is a 126-year-old nonprofit multi-service agency specializing in behavioral and developmental services. Ädelbrook is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of families and individuals of all ages and abilities, with expertise in supporting individuals with intellectual /developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders. From individualized education services to residential and therapeutic supports, Ädelbrook provides a high-quality continuum of care to meet the ever-changing needs of the amazing children and individuals it supports. Through collaboration, both internally and externally, Ädelbrook provides expert, comprehensive, data-driven, person-centered services with compassion. By building trust in a safe and nurturing environment Ädelbrook helps those it serves find a future filled with achievement, dignity, happiness, and hope. To learn more about Ädelbrook please visit www.adelbrook.org
Liberty Bank Foundation
Since its inception in 1997, Liberty Bank Foundation has awarded $23 million in grants to nonprofit organizations throughout Liberty Bank’s market area. Following the Bank’s ‘Be Community Kind’ spirit, the Foundation seeks to improve the lives of individuals and families by investing in three key areas: education & training, affordable housing and food.