“My mentee kept saying fishing with us was the most fun they ever had!”
Hartford, Connecticut Project
Project Lead Mentor: Mark Alpert
Co-lead Mentor: John Stratton
TMP, Hartford founder: Cy Coons
Project location: Hartford, Connecticut
Year project founded: 2019
Mentors on this team: 15
Children mentored to date: 10
Children to be mentored in 2024: 8
Local foster care partners: We are currently partnering with local foster care agencies.
Local companies that support this project: We are currently searching for local support.

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Hartford, Connecticut Project
The grin on my mentees face was incredible when he caught his first fish! We can’t wait to get them back out on the water again!
Project Mentors

MARK ALPERT, LEAD MENTOR
I have loved to fish since I was a young kid and when I was 13 my parents gave me my first fly rod. I didn’t know how to use it so I put on a worm and caught beautiful native brook trout up in Maine. I quickly switched to flies and have been fly fishing ever since. I am still fascinated by catching fish – any type. My favorite species of fish to catch is the one I haven’t caught yet. Whether fishing for bluegills, stripers, or a new species I am totally engrossed. Helping new anglers have this experience and watching them eventually catch fish on a fly is a thrill! The Mayfly Project is a wonderful organization where this happens and I’m happy to be a part of it.

JOHN STRATTON, CO-LEAD MENTOR
35 year old part time guide/ construction worker. Been fly fishing since I was 5, fly fishing has been a vital role in my life from the memory’s with my grandfather to finding inner peace in the stream. I hope to share my love of the sport and hope other can find the peace I do on the river!

STEVEN BOISSEAU, MENTOR
I started fishing in small streams at the age of 9 years old with worms. In grade school I joined a fly tying club and was introduced to fly fishing. I’ve fished for most of my life off and on and really enjoy teaching new fishermen/fisherwomen. I love the outdoors every way possible… fishing, hunting, or just plain hiking. Lets all get out there and have some fun!
ANDREW KELLY, MENTOR
KATE POWERS, MENTOR

JOHN DIVENERE, MENTOR
Born and raised in Connecticut. Lived in low income housing for many years. My father was born in Italy and spoke very little English. I did well in school. Joined the Boy Scouts and obtained the Eagle Scout rank. In high school i played football and was the captain of the team my senior year. I went to college and got a bachelors degree in Criminal Justice Administration. I then git a Masters Degree in Public Administration, i was hired as a police officer in 1978 and retired in 2011 as the Chief of Police. I started fly fishing many years ago but stopped when my children were born and other obligations got in the way. I started again when I retired. I greatly enjoy it, have travelled across the country fishing with my wife, who fishes.

STEVE HOGAN, MENTOR
A fly fishing guide/teacher for 14 years,I’ve been fly fishing for close to 40 years,I’ve never lived more than a mile away from the Farmington river and almost exclusively guide on that river.

MARGUERITE ALPERT, MENTOR
My Dad took me fishing when I was a kid. Those were always good days being together – and catching a fish was always a thrill! Now, I fly fish with my husband and the same good feelings return to me. I love being outdoors and being with young people and look forward to sharing these simple and special moments.

GRACE ALPERT, MENTOR
I grew up in central CT and would spend lots of time exploring the outdoors with my parents and brother. My father, who is an avid fly fisherman, would bring me spin fishing from a very young age. He has taught me the basics of fly fishing and appreciation for all things outdoors. I’m honored to be part of The Mayfly Project and believe in the importance of connecting with nature.

ED MORRIS, MENTOR
I was introduced to fishing as a child by my dad, and I’ve been “hooked” ever since. While I’m relatively new to fly fishing, I’ve quickly developed a deep appreciation for every aspect of the sport.
Born and raised in Connecticut, I’ve been fortunate to explore the region’s beautiful local streams and rivers. My work has also given me the chance to fish in some incredible locations, including the mangroves of Florida—an experience I’ll never forget! Now, I’m excited to share my passion with kids. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of catching that first fish, and I look forward to helping others experience that same joy.

MAX ALPERT, MENTOR
Hello, I’m Max! Having grown up spending time on the water with my father, I’ve had countless great memories fishing. Recently, I’ve taken those memories a step further by diving into the world of fly fishing.
Professionally, I work at MONECO Advisors, a wealth management firm in Glastonbury, where I help clients navigate their financial journeys. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through basketball and working out, as well as spending time with my girlfriend, Ally, and my friends and family. I’m thrilled to be starting my volunteer journey with the MayFly Project. Not only am I eager to mentor young anglers, but I’m also looking forward to learning from the amazing people involved in the program.

TIM VERRE, MENTOR
Having grown up in a small town along the banks of the Connecticut River, Tim spent many days fishing with friends. A career working outdoors throughout the state led to an appreciation for all the quiet spots along the Farmington River and Long Island Sound. While raising three children he had the good fortune of being involved in coaching youth sports. As a mentor with the Mayfly Project, Tim looks forward to the opportunity to help young people find confidence and passion in the great outdoors.

ALLY FAULSTICK, MENTOR
Although new to fly fishing, Ally is excited to be able to combine clinical expertise with her love of the outdoors. A adolescent trauma therapist based in Springfield MA, Ally brings a unique understanding to the power of nature and its ability to create a calm, grounding environment where kids can explore their emotions, build coping skills, and develop a greater sense of self. When taking space from her day to day routine, Ally enjoys spending time with her dog Lincoln in her cozy home of Wethersfield CT that she shares with her partner Max.

ANTOINE BISSIEUX, MENTOR
French born. 39 years in the states. I am a Orvis endorsed guide in CT.
News & Events
Idaho DHW Highlights TMP and a new program for free fishing licenses!
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare highlights The Mayfly Project and a new program to give free fishing licenses to youth in extended foster care. From the article: For children in foster care, the effects of instability, stress, and trauma can be...
Virginia Wildlife Magazine highlights the Roanoke, VA project!
Thank you to the Virginia Wildlife magazine for highlighting our Roanoke, VA project in the Jan/Feb 2025 issue. Read the full article HERE! Courtesy of Virginia Wildlife magazine linked here: https://dwr.virginia.gov/virginia-wildlife/
2024 impact!
Take a look at the impact we had in 2024! Thank you to everyone for making this possible. From donors and sponsors, to advisors and mentors, we could not do this without all of YOU! Stay in the loop with news, events, and updates from The Mayfly Project[ninja_form...
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Hartford, Connecticut Project
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