Every person facing type 1 diabetes (T1D) knows the feeling of walking into a room and instantly understanding each other — no explanation needed. That connection is powerful. It’s also the whole idea behind one of our most hands-on volunteer roles: the Community Connector.
Across the Northeastern States Territory — spanning the Greater New England Chapter and the Connecticut and Western Massachusetts Chapter — Community Connectors are the local link between Breakthrough T1D and the families who need us most. We’re looking for more people to join them.
What does a Community Connector do?
Community Connectors plan and lead peer support meetups and community events in their own backyard — at parks, libraries, bowling alleys, restaurants, and anywhere else local T1D families can gather. Think casual coffee meetups, family game nights, or a walk in the park with other people who just get it.
Community Connectors choose the dates and locations, then partner with their Community Connector Chair and Breakthrough T1D staff to bring each event to life — from spreading the word to welcoming families when they arrive. It’s a role built on relationships: showing up, listening, and helping every family in the room feel a little less alone.
Why it matters
T1D doesn’t take a day off, and neither does the need for community. Every meetup a Community Connector hosts helps grow Breakthrough T1D’s presence locally and gives families a real, in-person way to connect with people who understand exactly what they’re going through.
Community Connectors don’t do it alone. Breakthrough T1D staff support every event with:
- A peer network of fellow Community Connectors to collaborate with
- RSVP tracking, so it’s easier to anticipate turnout
- An event-details form and promotional support across social media, chapter websites, flyers, and Outreach Ambassadors
- Materials to share with families at each event
- A sign-in sheet to help staff follow up with attendees
What it takes
No special expertise required — just a genuine understanding of the Breakthrough T1D mission, strong communication skills, and a willingness to collaborate with staff and fellow volunteers. The commitment is one two-year term, with at least one event hosted per quarter.
What you’ll gain
Community Connectors get a front-row seat to Breakthrough T1D’s progress — staying current on chapter activities and the latest research advancing cures, prevention, and treatment for T1D. They build lasting connections with fellow volunteers and the families they meet. And with every event, they grow our base of supporters working toward a world without T1D.
Most of all, they earn something money can’t buy: the genuine gratitude of the individuals and families whose lives they touch.
Ready to connect your community?
If you’re looking for a meaningful, flexible way to give back, becoming a Community Connector might be it. Visit the following link to sign up: forms.cloud.microsoft/r/25iJimz8iw.
Have questions first? Reach out to Holly Maloney at [email protected]— we’d love to talk it through with you.