CfAL Welcomes You

Concept for Adaptive Learning (CfAL) is a Connecticut non-profit organization focused on supporting educational outcomes for public school children and adults through technology programs. Supported by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro and other committed community members, the organization was founded and received its 501(c)(3) status in 2001.

The organization, with support from community and collaborative partners, continues today to provide technology-based programs to disadvantaged public school children, parents and adults living in impoverished neighborhoods throughout Connecticut. Youth programs directly support children's education. CfAL's adult training programs support workforce development and teach adults how to use technology to expand learning to the home.

Since 2001, CfAL has impacted thousands of individuals, and has provided more than 4,000 free computers to low-income households.

We close technology gaps that help close education gaps.

Our Mission

To raise the academic achievement of urban public school children, leading them to succeed in school and beyond. In pursuit of this mission, we use the resources of technology to educate students, parents, as our cornerstone and integrated approach for attaining improved educational outcomes.

Our Vision

Our vision is that ALL households should have access to the technology that will help them succeed in school and career.

Having a computer and technology in the home for school and work is a necessity – not a luxury. CfAL’s work to close the technology gap for New Haven students and families by providing:

basic computer training for parents and adults,
free computers to families that do not have a working computer at home, and
programs that further digital learning.

Board of Directors

CfAL is lead by a group of experienced and dedicated Board Members.

Curtis Hill

Founder, Board Member

Damaris Garcia

Board Chair

Nick Lavorato

Board Vice Chair

Amy Bailey

Secretary

Development Committee, Chair

Mr. Hill is a Board member and the founder of CfAL. He has worked in the field of Information Technology for more than 30 years, in positions of increased responsibility. He has worked for Digital Equipment Corporation, acquired by Compaq Computer Corporation then Hewlett Packard Corporation, in software development, systems analysis, project and program management and customer service management. He has worked as a consultant to numerous Fortune 100 companies.

Gary Smith

Board Treasurer

Finance Committee, Chair

Mr. Smith is a Director at Marcum and has more than 15 years of experience managing, conducting reviewing and analyzing financial information for various industries including healthcare, not-for-profit, governmental, pension plans and manufacturing and distribution.

Mr. Smith’s experience includes a combination of both private company and public accounting, including experience with a “Big 4” accounting firm.

James Mitchell

Board Member

Governance Commitee, Chair

James is a Marketing Manager with Comcast, who has worked for Comcast in a variety of marketing and advertising positions with increased responsibility since 2002. His expertise in marketing and advertising have helped support various organizations, especially his work in brand strategy and the implementation of internal and external marketing campaigns.

Sonila Bakiu

Board Member

Sonila Bakiu is currently the Manager of S&T Deleading and Construction Company. S&T Deleading and Construction is one of only a handful of construction companies in the state, which is 100 percent female owned and operated. The company is based in New Haven, CT, and has been performing successful renovation services for the City of New Haven and other cities since 2011.

Yasir Hamed

Board Member

Programs Committee, Chair

Toni Harp

Board Member

On January 1, 2014, Toni N. Harp was sworn in as the first female Mayor of the City of New Haven, CT. Prior to being the mayor, she was a State Senator serving ten terms as the Connecticut State Senator. As a State Senator, Toni Harp is recognized for her contributions to sound and progressive public policy.