Rivera Memorial Foundation, Inc.

Honor Their Legacy. Empower Their Future.

In 1990, two Waterbury heroes—firefighters Heriberto T. Rivera and Howard Hughes—gave their lives in service to our community. To honor their sacrifice, the Rivera Memorial Foundation, Inc. was born: a place where hope lives, futures are built, and young people are given the tools to succeed.

Today, we carry their legacy forward by empowering over 200 children and teens every year through programs that inspire, educate, and uplift:

• Puentes/Bridge After-School Program – bridging gaps in education and opportunity




• High School Internship Program – preparing teens for college, careers, and leadership




• Adventures in Babysitting Program – teaching youth responsibility, safety, and life skills




• College Tours – opening students’ eyes to the possibilities of higher education




• Camp Fire Summer Enrichment – keeping kids learning, active, and inspired all summer long




• Youth Sports Programs – building teamwork, confidence, and health




• Scholarship Fund – awarding college scholarships to help students achieve their dreams




• Southend Cheerleaders – our original, longest-running program, building spirit and pride

Since 1990, we’ve impacted more than 5,000 young lives and invested over $100,000 in scholarships for Waterbury students.

But there’s still more work to do.
We envision a full-service community center—a safe, welcoming place where every child, teen, and family can find opportunity, mentorship, and a sense of belonging.

Your gift today helps make that dream a reality.

When you support the Rivera Memorial Foundation, you honor the courage and sacrifice of the past—and you help create a brighter, stronger future for the next generation.

Together, we can build a better Waterbury. One child, one family, one future at a time.

Donate today. Their future begins with you.