Person to Person (P2P) recently announced that entrepreneurs and philanthropists André and Michelle Swanston have joined Rising Together as Platinum Sponsors. As co-chairs of Swanston Philanthropy and co-owners of Connecticut United FC (CT United), the Swanstons are committed to advancing economic opportunity, youth development and community empowerment — values that align closely with P2P’s mission of providing essential resources to families in Fairfield County.
On Friday, April 4, at Serafresca at the Italian Center in Stamford, Rising Together will bring together business leaders, community advocates and changemakers to support P2P’s critical work.
The Swanstons are accomplished entrepreneurs and philanthropists who led Stamford-based Tru Optik, a pioneering data and analytics company in streaming media that was acquired by TransUnion for over $100 million. As benefactors of Swanston Philanthropy, they continue to drive initiatives that fuel economic growth, youth opportunities and community impact. Both are strong advocates for education and community engagement, with Michelle leading key philanthropic efforts supporting underserved families.
Their commitment extends to Connecticut United Academy, the only free youth soccer academy in Connecticut with a pro player pathway. By eliminating financial barriers, the academy ensures that top young talent has access to elite training and a clear route to professional soccer. Beyond the field, academy players have volunteered with P2P, reinforcing the Swanstons’ belief in developing well-rounded athletes who give back to their communities.
Rising Together will feature an unforgettable evening, including a special performance by Grammy-nominated artist Chanté Moore, a tribute to honoree Thasunda Brown Duckett, president and CEO of TIAA, and an engaging program hosted by CBS NY anchor Cindy Hsu.
“We are thrilled to welcome André and Michelle as Platinum Sponsors of Rising Together,” said Nancy Coughlin, CEO of Person to Person. ”Their dedication to innovation, community investment and youth empowerment reflects the very spirit of this event.”
Person to Person (P2P) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families and individuals as they move toward stability with healthy food, clothing, housing assistance and a path to economic opportunity. P2P serves 28,000 residents in Fairfield County with two neighborhood food pantries, two mobile food pantries, a clothing center, caseworker assistance, a Financial Opportunity Center®, emergency financial assistance, college scholarships and summer camperships.
