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United Way > Building Foundations

Welcome to THE 5th Annual Commercial Real Estate and Building Industry’s Building Foundations Breakfast presented by Trammell Crow Residential 

Thank you for joining us at the Building Foundations Breakfast!

The complex economic landscape negatively impacts many families experiencing financial hardships, struggling to pay rent and at risk of homelessness. For the third year in a row, our community has experienced a spike in homelessness. 

To take action and support our community, the commercial real estate and building industry came together and partnered with United Way to make a difference. Funds raised from this event benefit United Way and its supported programs focused on reducing and preventing homelessness in Greater Hartford.   

At today’s event, you will hear stories full of information and inspiration. And, we are honoring Michael W. Friemuth with an award named in honor of Jeff Digel, a pillar of our industry. 

Thank you for your support, and thank you for taking action on behalf of families in need in our community. Together, we are closing housing gaps and creating equitable opportunities so everyone succeeds.  

Sincerely, 

Edmund Kindelan, Mark Vasington, David Soule, Michael J. Riccio, Mark Duclos, Nando Parete and Brian Zelman  

Founding Building Foundations Committee Members

Planning Committee

Founding Members:

  • Edmund Kindelan, Retired, Cohn Reznick 
  • Michael Riccio, CBRE  
  • Dave Soule, Smith Brothers 
  • Mark Vasington, Retired, First American Title Insurance Company 
  • Mark Duclos, Sentry Commercial
  • Nando Parete, Cigna
  • Brian Zelman, Zelman Real Estate

Members:

  • Christopher Arnold, Liberty Bank
  • Vincent Bergin, Connecticut Housing Finance Authority
  • Erin Cabelus, CATIC
  • Jane Davey, LAZ Investments
  • Barrie Deschaine, KBE Building
  • Kevin Dowd, Harrington Law
  • Jessica Dziob, Phase Zero Design

 

  • Greg Faulkner, Robinson+Cole
  • Melissa Ferrucci, CohnReznick
  • Mike Kolakowski, KBE Building
  • Nate Kirschner, Hillwood Realty
  • James Lane, Webster Bank
  • Melissa Roy, Tecton Architects
  • Josh Sullivan, Standard Builders
  • Kerry Wood, New England Retail

Founding Members:

  • Edmund Kindelan, Retired, Cohn Reznick 
  • Michael Riccio, CBRE  
  • Dave Soule, Smith Brothers 
  • Mark Vasington, Retired, First American Title Insurance Company 
  • Mark Duclos, Sentry Commercial
  • Nando Parete, Cigna
  • Brian Zelman, Zelman Real Estate

Members:

  • Melissa Ferrucci, CohnReznick
  • Christopher Arnold, Liberty Bank
  • Jessica Dziob, Phase Zero
  • Randy Salvatore, RMS Investments
  • Mike Kolakowski, KBE Building Corporation
  • Barrie Deschaine, KBE Building Corporation
  • Jane Davey, LAZ Investments
  • James Lane, Webster Bank
  • Melissa Roy, Tecton Architects
  • Greg Faulkber, Robinson+Cole
  • Josh Sullivan, Standard Builders

Thank You Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor

Networking Sponsor

Technology Sponsor

Diamond Sponsor

Emerald Sponsors

Premium Sponsors

Marshall S. Ruben

Platinum Sponsors

Print and Media Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bob Samuels

Coleman B. Levy and Levy Properties, LLC

Shelbourne CT, LLC

Bronze Sponsors

Architectural Building Systems | Beacon Communities| Capasso Enterprises | CHK Architects | CT Chapter CCIM | Corridor Ventures/Honeycomb Real Estate | Cumming Group | Day Pitney, LLC | Downes Construction | Earthlight Technologies | Enterprise Builders, Inc | GNY Insurance Companies | Guilford Savings Bank | GZA  GeoEnviromental Inc. | Hartford Athletic Charitable Fund | Hinckley Allen, LLP | Horvath & Tremblay | Hurwitz Sagarin Slossberg & Knuff, LLC | MacDermid, Reynolds & Glissman, P.C. | Marsh Surety | ORMS (Outsourced Risk Management Solutions, LLC) | Partner Engineering and Science, Inc | RM Bradley Management Corporation | Rogin Nassau, LLC | Sam’s Food Stores | Saxe Doernberger & Vita, PC | SIOR

Architectural Building Systems

Beacon Communities

Capasso Enterprises

CHK Architects

CT Chapter CCIM

Corridor Ventures/Honeycomb Real Estate

Cumming Group

Day Pitney, LLC

Downes Construction

Earthlight Technologies

Enterprise Builders, Inc.

GNY Insurance Companies

Guilford Savings Bank

GZA GeoEnviromental Inc. 

Hartford Athletic Charitable Fund 

Hinckley Allen, LLP

Horvath & Tremblay

Hurwitz Sagarin Slossberg & Knuff, LLC

MacDermid, Reynolds & Glissman, P.C.

Marsh Surety

ORMS (Outsourced Risk Management Solutions, LLC)

Partner Engineering and Science, Inc

RM Bradley Management Corporation

Rogin Nassau, LLC

Sam’s Food Stores

Saxe Doernberger & Vita, PC

SIOR

Friends of Building Foundations

Bozzuto’s, Inc. | Bozzuto Coast to Coast Produce | Mike Brett

Cherry Hill | Mackenzie Painting | Penwood Realty Advisors, Inc. 

Trammell Crow Residential has been one of the largest developers in the United States for more than 40 years. Trammell Crow Residential builds premier residences, creating vibrant and amenity-rich communities that residents are proud to call home. Trammell Crow once said, “Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence.” Thank you, Trammell Crow Residential, for your generosity!

Be Community Kind. Liberty Bank knows we all can do more to help our communities shine, encouraging us to spread kindness and create a ripple effect that lasts for generations to come. Established in 1825, Liberty Bank is the oldest and largest independent mutual bank in the country with 56 banking offices across Connecticut and two in Massachusetts. Liberty Bank maintains a longstanding commitment to providing exceptional customer service and unparalleled community involvement. Thank you, Liberty Bank, for supporting Building Foundations and helping to make kindness the norm!

Jasko Development works hand-in-hand with communities to create inspiring places that bring a collective vision to life. Jasko Development’s principals boast decades of combined experience in development, financing, construction, asset management, public-private partnerships, community relations and related disciplines. Zelman Real Estate specializes in commercial real estate development, investment, consulting and brokerage. Thank you Jasko Development and Zelman Real Estate for your generous support!

Program

– Doors Open –

7:00 a.m.

– Networking –

7:30 a.m.

– Breakfast –

8:30 a.m.

– Welcome –

Ralph Gagliardo
Hands on Hartford’s Faces of Homelessness Speaker

Eric Harrison 
President and CEO, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut

Melissa Ferruci
Building Foundations Breakfast Committee 

– Special Messages –

Sean Rae
Trammell Crowe Residential – Presenting Sponsor

Arunan Arulampalam
Mayor, City of Hartford

Presentation of the 2025 Jeffrey Digel Award to Michael W. Friemuth

Melissa Ferrucci
Building Foundations Breakfast Committee 

Jacob F.
Covenant Preparatory Student
 

Randy Salvatore
RMS Properties

Michael W. Friemuth
Honoree, 2025 Jeffrey Digel Award
CRDA

– Opportunity to Take Action –

Mark Duclos and Brian Zelman
Building Foundations Breakfast Committee 

Cassandra Gates
Champion, United Way Rapid Response Fund

Keith McGilvery
FOX61

– Closing –

Mark Duclos
Building Foundations Breakfast Committee 

Chris Arnold
Liberty Bank – Networking Sponsor

Webster Bank, the Building Foundations Technology Sponsor, provides comprehensive financing solutions and alternatives for the purpose of acquiring, developing, constructing, improving or refinancing commercial real estate. Webster Bank is a leading mid-sized bank that has national-level strength with community-centered values. Their inclusive and diverse workplace along with their values of helping individuals, families and businesses achieve their financial goals is “The Webster Way.” Webster Bank works with local communities and knows their involvement makes a difference. Thank you Webster Bank for your generous support!

CohnReznick, a Building Foundations Premier Sponsor, is one of the most influential real estate practices in the industry. Their real estate division focuses on affordable housing, commercial real estate, construction, corporate real estate, opportunity zones and tax credits. CohnReznick’s innovative and client-centric culture views their success as a call-to-action … a means to improve our communities, promote beneficial legislative policies and progress the high standards of the accounting profession. Thank you CohnReznick for your generous support!

LAZ Parking, a Building Foundations Emerald Sponsor, is more than just the fastest growing and second largest parking company in the country – they believe that the work they do and how they treat people can really Make a Difference. LAZ Parking offers safe and convenient parking garages across the U.S. including Boston, Washington D.C., Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston, San Diego, New York City, San Francisco and more. Known for delivering great service and maximum financial results, LAZ Parking helps its partners interested in leasing their facility, entering into management agreements or selling their parking facilities. Thank you, LAZ Parking, for your support! 

Kelley Drye & Warren, a Building Foundations Premier Sponsor, is a powerhouse firm of skilled practitioners in the areas of litigation, regulatory, real estate, corporate and bankruptcy combine their talents to address the unique complexities of their clients’’ legal challenges. Kelley Drye & Warren is committed to diversity and inclusion, pro bono work to assist the underrepresented, and the gifts of service and resources. They take pride in making a positive impact on their communities, championing causes to foster a culture of compassion, generosity and social responsibility. Thank you Kelley Drye & Warren for your generous support!

A Tribute to Jeff Digel

Real estate combined Jeffrey Digel’s interest in architecture, finance, geography and economic systems. As he built his career, Jeffrey was drawn to the investment side of the business. He co-founded and served as Executive Vice President for iStar Financial Inc., where he helped build the company’s investment team and originate more than $3 billion in structured finance assets. He went on to Figure Eight Properties where he formed a company that bought personal, concierge-level services to his clients. Jeffrey was equally committed to philanthropy and community action. He was the co-founder and first chairman of the board of Covenant Preparatory School, an independent, interfaith, tuition-free middle school for boys from underserved families in the Hartford area. Jeffrey also served on nonprofit boards for organizations including: Charter Oak Cultural Center, Hartford Area Habitat for Humanity and Achievement First Hartford Academy.  
 Annually, we will pay tribute to our colleague and friend by presenting the Jeffrey Digel Award to a member of the industry that embodies the characteristics of Jeffrey’s legacy.

2025 Jeffrey Digel Award Honoree: Michael W. Friemuth

Michael W. Freimuth has been the Executive Director of the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) since its creation in 2012. He oversees CRDA’s entertainment and convention facilities, housing and commercial development programs and regional initiatives. Mr. Freimuth has over 40 years in real estate, finance, banking, and public sector development.

Prior to joining CRDA, he served as Commissioner of Development for the City of New Rochelle, NY. In that position, Freimuth oversaw housing, building, planning, zoning, economic development, transportation and parking as well as special projects.

Freimuth also served as the Director of Economic Development for the City of Stamford, CT where he negotiated large scale commercial and residential deals, secured project financing and managed the enterprise zone, entertainment district and multiple tax incentive programs. Previously Freimuth served as Director of the Office of Planning and Economic Development for the City of Bridgeport, CT, was a senior legislative assistant in the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. and managed a real estate subsidiary of a mutual savings bank headquartered in Connecticut.

Freimuth earned his Bachelors of Art degree in Economics from the University of Connecticut and holds a Master of Public Administration and Public Finance from George Washington University.

A few of Mr. Freimuth’s awards include the Public Service Award from the Connecticut Secretary of State, a Citation of Outstanding Achievement from the Connecticut General Assembly, and the Distinguished Alumni Award from George Washington University. Mr. Freimuth was also a Presidential Intern. He has been a part of American teams assisting Eastern European countries establish economic development programs and has frequently been listed among Hartford area’s top influencers.

He lives with his family in Fairfield, Connecticut.

American Real Estate Partners (AREP) is an institutional fund manager and operating partner focused on office, industrial, data center and residential/mixed-use repositioning and development throughout the East Coast. AREP provides expertise in all ownership disciplines, including acquisitions and asset management, development and positioning, property management, leasing and market research, construction management and engineering. Thank you AREP for your generous support!

CBRE, a Building Foundations Premier Sponsor, provides commercial real estate services to property owners, investors and occupiers. CBRE believes sustainable success can only be built on a foundation of responsible business practices, and that everyone gains an advantage by subscribing to the values of “RISE” (Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence). They recognize the impact they have on their communities, clients, employees and stakeholders, and their pillars of corporate responsibility (environmental sustainability, people and culture, procurement, communities and giving, workplace safety and well-being, ethics and compliance, and governance) are key to providing industry leadership that grows their business in socially responsible ways. Thank you CBRE for your generous support!

Cigna describes itself as a ‘catalyst of action and a convener of stakeholders who, together, can make a difference…” Focusing on three strategic areas (Health and Well-Being, Environment and Inclusive and Responsible Business), Cigna applies its expertise, resources and innovative thinking to help solve complex challenges globally and within key markets. Thank you, Cigna, for your generosity!

JLL “Sees a Brighter Way” forward for their clients, people, our planet and our communities. By combining innovative technology with world-renowned expertise, JLL unveils opportunities that create a brighter future for all. JLL sees the built environment as a powerful medium with which to change the world for the better. Thank you JLL for your generous support!

M&T Bank’s purpose is to understand the individuals and the businesses in their neighborhood to create the right opportunities for the people they serve. Committed to making our community better, M&T Bank encourages giving back, investing in driving change and empowering people. Thank you M&T Bank for your generous support!

Marshall Ruben

Marshall S. Ruben, Principal, Ruben/Horan, P.C. Attorneys at Law, has considerable experience in commercial real estate investment and finance transactions, corporate and partnership matters and federal income tax planning. Marshall S. Ruben represents Fortune 500 clients and individuals throughout the U.S. and abroad in the acquisition and development of commercial real estate and in the origination, acquisition and restructuring of mortgages and corporate debt obligations. Thank you Marshall S. Ruben for supporting Building Foundations!

Smith Brothers, a Building Foundations Premium Sponsor, is one of the largest and most respected independent insurance firms in New England. Their mission is to build a growing, profitable company that demonstrates a level of service higher than industry standards and delivers it in a professional way to their clients – offering the best products available and providing knowledgeable advice so their clients know they have an advocate and their assets are protected.  Their strategic priorities include being a great place to work, client experience, profitable growth and a culture of helping others, their big purpose. Smith Brothers donates both volunteer hours and resources to causes in their community. Thank you Smith Brothers for your generous support!

Put the FUN in FUNdraising!

FOX 61 is “Making an Impact” in the communities where we live and work. As “Connecticut’s News Station,” FOX 61 delivers the latest on breaking news, severe weather, sports and more, and is committed to lifting up people, causes and communities. Thank you FOX 61 for supporting Building Foundations!

Hartford Business Journal (HBJ) is a media organization providing business news, information and analysis for business owners and decision makers. HBJ’s mission is to be the leading source of business news and analysis. HBJ delivers coverage of business and economic trends, issues and news through credible, evocative and stimulating writing. Thank you HBJ for your generous support!

About United Way

For more than 100 years, United Way has closed gaps in child literacy, housing, wages and life expectancy so everyone succeeds. United Way does this by aligning partners across sectors to end poverty; leveraging information and experience to deepen impact; connecting people with resources and opportunities to make a difference; and, transforming the future with game-changing solutions. Together, we are United to End Poverty.

If you contributed $1,000 or more at today’s Building Foundations Breakfast, you are automatically going to be recognized by United Way as a leadership donor. Through your generosity, leadership donors demonstrate a true commitment to creating positive impact and lasting change in the lives of children and families. 

Why Your
Support Matters

When you support Building Foundations, you are preventing and reducing homelessness for children, adults and families in our community. Since 2021, thanks to the generosity of Building Foundations Breakfast supporters, more than $2.5 million of much-needed funds were raised to ensure that:  

  • More than 1,500 people received emergency shelter;
  • More than 4,300 people avoided homelessness through the shelter diversion programs and rental assistance;  
  • Information and referral services through United Way 211 continued to be funded; and,  
  • Ten (10) students at Covenant Preparatory School in Hartford have their tuition fully paid each year they attend the school.

The Unspoken Words of a Grateful Population

For the sake of authenticity allow me to first disclose
Of my own past experiences with homelessness and addiction.

It is for that reason, and others
I stand before you now
Attempting to honor the multitude of voices
of thousands of grateful recpients,

Recipients of this foundation’s generosity, courage,
Dedication, commitment, and unyielding compassion.

For in every act of true compassion-there lies a compass
Whether pointing due North, due South, Due East, or Due West
For this coalition, it will always point to “do something”
–To make the world a better place–
Builders, of all people, know the importance of a straight line.
In the complex matters of humanity-unlike walls
Lives are rarely squared on both ends.

Builders also know the importance of a strong foundation
To be stable-is to be able.

Therein lies the beauty and the miracle of your work
It has been once said: “to change a single life-is to change the world”.

To that notion, I would simply add-
–Change is not only at the bottom of our purses
But also–in the depth of our pursuits.

Ralph J. Gagliardo
Hands on Hartford’s Faces of Homelessness Speaker
Original poem written April 2025

Upcoming Events

14th Annual Power of the Purse Luncheon and Silent Auction presented by Hartford HealthCare

Women United’s 14th Annual Power of the Purse Luncheon and Silent Auction presented by Hartford HealthCare
June 12, 2025 | 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Connecticut Convention Center 
 
For more than 14 years, United Way Women United’s Power of the Purse has raised critical resources to close financial gaps and create opportunities for local women and their families achieve financial secure. Enjoy high-quality networking with hundreds of area professionals, a robust silent auction, lively entertainment and an inspirational program featuring keynote speakers Andrea Elliott (a Pulitzer Prize Award-winning journalist) and Dasani Coates, the subject of Elliott’s book “Invisible Child”. 

FOX61 and United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut present: The ImpaCT Awards
October 23, 2025 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. | Hartford Marriott Downtown 

FOX61 and United Way are joining forces to recognize and honor individuals, groups and organizations who make a significant contribution to health care, housing, financial empowerment and/or education in Connecticut. Nominations open soon. 

Bob Samuels

CHK ARCHITECTS

Saxe Doernberger & Vita, PC