Dan Smyth-Temple
Development Assistant
He/Him
Before NEST, Dan worked in conservation and education at Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation and Sarah Lawrence College, where he attended English and film school. The work at both was heavily focused on the local community, making for a natural transition to NEST. Dan is a Chase Collegiate K-12 alumnus.
My Story
When did you join NEST?
June 2023
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Why did you decide to join NEST?
Having been born and raised in Waterbury, I saw firsthand the housing issues that face Connecticut. NEST’s proven positive impact on my home community made for an easy decision to join the team.
What is it about NEST that keeps you engaged with the work/mission?
The unity of vision within the organization, and being able to see firsthand results for the work we’ve put in. Everybody is on the same page about making Connecticut a better, easier place to live. It’s great to see people leave with more peace of mind than they came in with through our support.
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Please share a memory or story from your time at NEST.
I haven’t been around for long at the time of writing this, but I was greeted on my first day with a “Welcome Dan” chalk sign that made me feel immediately part of the team. Everybody was so kind and welcoming in showing me around, and enthusiastic to tell me more about their end of the organization. You feel welcome the moment you step inside, and that’s pretty special.
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Looking forward, what are your greatest hopes for the future of NEST?
My hope is that NEST continues to expand its reach, both within our current region and beyond. Everyone deserves access to a resource like NEST.
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What are 3 things you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Writing, filmmaking, and hiking. The first two mostly happen at my desk; the third I’ve gone as far as Oregon and Texas to do. But I also really like Hop Brook
Let's Connect
203-753-1896