KELLY WELDON
Director, Foundations in Faith

BIO

For the past 25 years, Kelly and her husband Chris have made their home in Wilton. They have three adult children who are now living and working in New York City.

Throughout her life, Kelly has focused on helping people in need and serving those who are marginalized. She is now the Director of Foundations in Faith, a 501c-3 recognized charity that is committed to supporting and transforming pastoral ministries in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Last year, Foundations in Faith began two new crucial missions: It has been an invaluable resource during the pandemic, particularly for its’ ability to assist pastorally vibrant parishes faced with financial challenges. In addition, Kelly became a member of the newly formed Diocesan Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism, which Bishop Frank Caggiano asked to develop strategic goals to combat racism.

Bishop Caggiano observed, “Under the capable and creative leadership of Kelly Weldon, [Foundations in Faith] has proven to be a great resource to our parishes and our people.”

For Kelly, the path to Foundations in Faith began growing up in a big, loving family – she was one of six children with an interesting birth order: Boy-girl, boy-girl, boy-girl. It was much like The Brady Bunch with Kelly being the “Marcia” of her family.

Kelly attended Catholic University of America, where she met her husband Chris, a student of law. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in social work, Kelly began her career in roles that combined social work and law. She worked at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office in the Witness Aid Program, and later moved on to work with children in foster care, representing their interests at Family Court hearings.

A fun fact -she even appeared before Judge Judy back in the day.

Over the years, Kelly has worked and volunteered at a handful of non-profits, including Head Start, Family & Children’s Agency, and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate).

In 2008, Kelly put her skills and experience to use at a small family foundation, the Perrin Family Foundation, in Ridgefield, Connecticut. It is here that she began her journey in understanding oppression and racism. It is also where where she learned the value of youth engagement.

In addition, Kelly’s foundation experience includes serving on the Connecticut Order of Malta Grant Committee.

In 2019, Kelly came to Foundations in Faith. She is energized by Bishop Caggiano’s comprehensive vision for pastoral care, the leadership of the Board of Directors, and the creativity of the committees that guide the strategy and grant making processes.

She noted, “The greatest inspiration comes from the people in the funded programs. They are missionaries for Christ, salvation and justice."

CAROL INCARNAÇÃO-SCHIRM
Grants Manager, Foundations in Faith

BIO

Carol is recently arrived in Connecticut from New York City where she and her husband Derick spent the last ten years. During that time, Carol worked in law, corporate, and politics and volunteered with a mentorship organization focused on preparing first-generation college students for the professional world.

Always seeking to serve the greater good, Carol took the opportunity of her recent move to pursue a role aligned with her faith, to which she began dedicating more time upon turning 33.

Since settling in Connecticut, Carol’s become a member of St. Mary Parish in Ridgefield where she volunteers as a catechist to 5th graders and participates in women's ministry and Disciples 4 Life.

Carol has a J.D. from Nova Southeastern University and a B.A. in International Affairs and Political Science from The Florida State University.

She’s excited to bring all the skills she picked up in the several roles and fields of her past to serve the mission of Foundations in Faith and of the Diocese of Bridgeport.

"This is about more than just starting a new job after moving to a new place, it's a way to offer all that I am to the Lord."