How Do You Turn Personal Passion Into 16 Years of Community Impact
For some people, giving back is a choice. For others, like Andi Sklar, it’s a way of life. What started as a heartfelt desire to make life better for children and families has, over 16 years, transformed into a steady journey of service, purpose, and real outcomes for people across Westport, CT and beyond.
Let’s look at how a personal passion becomes a lifelong contribution, and what you can learn from Andi’s commitment to her community.
How Do You Turn Personal Passion Into 16 Years of Community Impact?
A Beginning Rooted in Childhood Advocacy
Andi Sklar’s journey started with a deep interest in helping children thrive. One of her first roles was as Chair of the Preschool Committee at Temple Israel Early Childhood Center. This was more than just a seat at the table, it was the beginning of hands-on involvement where she could shape experiences for children and support parents at one of the most important stages of development.
Her early involvement set the tone for what would follow: action based on care, and work that created space for others to feel seen, supported, and strengthened.
Lemonade and Love: A Grassroots Start with Angel-ade
Some of the most impactful ideas come from simple moments, and for Andi Sklar, one of those moments became Angel-ade. This local lemonade stand was created to support Al’s Angels, a nonprofit that helps families facing life-threatening illnesses.
By co-founding Angel-ade, Andi helped bring kids and adults together in a powerful way. It wasn’t just about raising money but it was about building awareness, inviting young people to participate, and giving neighbors a way to contribute, one glass at a time.
This effort made a statement: community work doesn’t need to be grand to be meaningful. It just needs people who care enough to take the first step.
From Local Action to Regional Change
Andi’s work didn’t stop at fundraising. She moved on to support Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, helping them build stronger ties with the community. One of her proudest efforts was Hearts in Harmony, an event that raises awareness and funds for research on Long QT syndrome, a rare heart condition.
She also spearheaded the Check Your Beat event, which offered free EKG screenings to children. These events weren’t just impressive on paper — they made a difference in real lives by catching issues early and encouraging preventive care.
Andi’s focus has always been consistent: practical support, meaningful outreach, and events that solve problems.
The Power of Relationships
Throughout her journey, Andi Sklar has built strong connections — with families, fellow volunteers, and leaders of local organizations. One of those meaningful connections was with Kira Greenfield of Hearts In Harmony, whose shared commitment helped strengthen the mission further.
It’s these relationships that keep her passion alive. Working side by side with others who care as deeply as she does has given her energy to keep going, even when the work is hard.
A Legacy of Community Care
Today, 16 years since that first preschool committee, Andi’s impact is felt across many corners of Westport and Fairfield County. From education to healthcare, from fundraising to health checks, her work reflects a quiet but steady belief: real change comes from steady effort, personal connection, and care that’s shown through action.
Andi Sklar’s story isn’t about chasing recognition. It’s about doing the work, the phone calls, the logistics, the long hours, because it matters. Because people matter.