SMART, Inc. is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that focuses on mental health advocacy, educational development, prevention measures, and improving overall wellness in all citizens within the communities of Southbury, Middlebury, and beyond
SMART relies on investments of time, expertise, & passion from like minded individuals within the communities who are committed to creating change and building our youth for the future!
EXECUTIVE BOARD
SMART's Board of Directors is composed of competent leaders who have made significant contributions to our organization, cause, and the communities. Each member brings a unique perspective & set of skills to
the table, expertise from various walks of life, and are all equally committed to the "It Takes a Village'' philosophy.
Marissa Primiano, MSEd., LPC
Executive Chair
Marissa has been with SMART since early 2020 and is passionate about strengthening mental wellness, self-esteem, and resilience in youth to help reduce the risk of substance misuse and other significant challenges. She has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years and holds a Master of Science in Education in School Psychology. Marissa is a local Licensed Professional Counselor who also works in private practice.
She believes that early identification and intervention are essential and is committed to helping young people build protective factors, emotional insight, and healthy coping skills that support long-term well-being.
Marissa is also a person in long-term recovery, bringing meaningful personal insight, lived experience, and perspective to the work she does through SMART.
Emily F. Carrington, MA
Secretary - Treasurer
Emily is a Southbury Resident & parent of two young Region 15 students. She received her Master's Degree from Fordham's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in the concentration of Criminology and Justice. Emily previously held positions with several nonprofits as an advocate for survivors of Domestic Violence. Currently, Emily is a paralegal at Cohen and Wolf, P.C., and is a crucial asset to SMART, managing the financial aspects & reporting guidelines.
Emily joined SMART because she wanted to be involved in a program that empowers the community, parents, and children by providing education and support for identifying and addressing mental health, safety, and addiction. She is also a member of one of SMART's valued sponsors & allies, Southbury Women's Club.
Noel Federle, MA, LPC
Advisor
SMART continues to incorporate valuable advice from the organization's original co-founder & former chairperson, Noel Federle. Noel is a long-term Southbury resident, local business owner, and parent of former Region 15 students. Her well known & respected mental health practice in Middlebury, Behavioral Health Center for Counseling & Learning [BHC], has been an ongoing support for SMART since its inception. The BHC has expanded in its scope & reach, with a newer office in Shelton, CT, to meet the growing need for professional mental health support across the state.
Noel has been practicing in the mental health field for 30 years & brings a wealth of knowledge & insight to the crucial work SMART continues to implement in our communities.
HISTORY
In May 2010, the communities of Southbury and Middlebury experienced a drug-and-alcohol-related murder and suicide of two young people. A local pastor made a public plea at a Board of Education meeting, to address vital concerns within the communities. Community members determined that a formal organization would be required to maintain a strong, effective, and on-going positive presence within the communities. These stakeholders came together and formed a non-profit organization called S.M.A.R.T., Inc. (Southbury & Middlebury Acting Responsibly Together).
Many years later, SMART continues in its original commitment to strengthen the lives of individuals, families, and communities by making the towns healthier & safer for young people by preventing youth substance misuse & promoting positive decision making.
