WHO WE ARE
The CJK Community
The CJK Community is made up of many people from all over the United States, most of whom predominantly reside in Connecticut. The Foundation has received support from loved ones and strangers from over nine different states and counting.
The Foundation is built for the service of others by those who knew and loved Connie, and those who carry a mental health diagnosis themselves or support loved ones who do. We are fortunate that our group is composed of mental health professionals, business and marketing experts, social workers, and many other talented people who lend their time and skills to further the mental health cause.
The CJK Community is dedicated to spreading kindness and compassion in the darkest of moments and is honored to include all those willing to show up, be present, and share their light. Our volunteers, event participants, well wishers, and donors help create an inclusive atmosphere focused on the positive healing that can occur when people come together to end mental health stigma and offer help to those seeking treatment.
With the generosity and support of few, we continue to grow into many.
Krissy Dorsey
Niece of Connie
Adjunct Professor at Tidewater Community College
I reside in Virginia Beach and raise my three children Brooke, Sloane, and James with my husband Jordan. I enjoy being outside, working out, and reading. I consider myself a lifelong learner and am passionate about providing mental health education. I have over 10 years of experience in public education and higher ED. I return to Connecticut frequently to spend time with family and friends and hope that others feel my aunt’s generous spirit through the foundation.
Thomas A. Sienkowski Jr.
Brother of Connie
Owner of New Concepts Plumbing and Heating
I have lived in Cheshire for over 55 years and have raised my three children here with my wife Nancy. I enjoy spending time out on the water along with spending time with friends. I am passionate about finding out more about the causes of depression and improving long term treatments for the disease. I have over 45 years of entrepreneurial experience.
Kate Corcoran
Niece of Connie
Sociology and Human Services Professional
Hello! I am the mother of 3 amazing kids, Andrew (age 8), Meghan (age 6), and Thomas (age 2). I currently work as an Office Administrator at my family's greenhouse business in Wallingford, CT. I have my Bachelors in Sociology from Quinnipiac University and my Master in Human Services from Post University. I love being home with my family and just enjoying the simple moments of playing in the backyard or just watching a movie. I am so honored to be a part of this board, and continuing supporting others, just as my Aunt Connie did.
Katie Smith
A Cheshire native, I currently live in New Haven with my boyfriend and greyhound Apollo. I started my career in education, but quickly learned my real passion is social work. I currently work as a LCSW at Yale Psychiatric Hospital and have experience providing mental health services in a variety of settings including community health clinics, in-home, and private practice. I’m a huge fan of self care and love to recharge by hiking, reading, or spending time with friends in the woods or on the water. I feel grateful to have known Connie, and to be part of honoring her life through the work of the CJK Foundation.
About Connie J Klanica
Connie Klanica spread joy and kindness within her family and community. She doted over her loved ones and always put the needs of others before her own. A natural caretaker, she always offered a helping hand, often going the “extra mile” to help others.
Connie enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and toasting over a glass of wine. Her favorite color was purple, which she often wore. She connected to dragonflies because of their symbolic nature of change, and was always on the lookout for dragonflies and other signs that angels and loved ones were near. She loved to laugh, and had a way of making people feel special through her thoughtful gestures and loving words. She is eternally loved and forever missed.