Serving Children from Norwalk and Stamford

An innovative idea: open the campus of New Canaan Country School to under-resourced kids during the summer.

Our Story

In 1964, New Canaan Country School Headmaster George Stevens had the bold idea, in an uncertain time in history, to make good use of the summer months and open the empty campus of the Country School to under-resourced students. He created the Horizons program to inspire students through hands-on, project-based academic experiences, and by making a long-term commitment to every child. He created a summer community where less privileged children felt they belonged, and that enriched its students by providing meaningful academic support and cultural experiences. 

Jill and George Stevens

Our Mission

Transforming the lives of underserved children and youth through year-round academic and enrichment programs to inspire learning, encourage success, and close the opportunity gap. 

A National Movement 

Today, Horizons at NCCS has grown from a summer program working with 20 students to a year-round program which today serves over 400 students in grades K – 12, each year, primarily from Norwalk and Stamford, Connecticut. In addition, Horizons has grown into a national movement, now serving over 5,840 children each summer at 59 sites in 18 states around the country, including eight in Connecticut alone. Little did George Stevens know his idea would create a national movement!