For Fairfielder, Melissa Ford, a successful career in graphic design and marketing did not satisfy her wanderlust. Melissa made a pivotal decision—she quit her job and explored, starting with Europe and South Africa. A three-month trip with her brother to South America proved to be life-altering.

For Lieutenant Bob Smith, being a part of the Fairfield Fire Department includes a lot more than extinguishing fires. As the head of the Fairfield Fire Fighters Charitable Foundation, Bob oversees numerous fundraisers and community service initiatives. Although the concept was introduced by the Fire Fighters Union, Bob and his colleagues started the 501 (c) (3) charity in 2012 to raise awareness of their mission.

Fairfield isn’t lacking in activities for its youth population, and yet many are not aware of The Police Cadet Program. Formerly known as the Police Explorers, this unique organization teaches students ages 13–21 about law enforcement, civic responsibility, and a wide range of life skills.

Jay McKinney’s saucy creation—Durty Jerk—is not just a thriving business but also a meaningful symbol of success. Jay and his two sisters grew up in low-income housing in Norwalk, CT and wound up renting an apartment in a house owned by a Jamaican woman, affectionately known as Miss Carmen. She loved to cook for the three siblings and instilled in them a love of Jamaican cuisine, particularly, Pepper Chicken, aka jerk chicken.

Any pet owner knows that there’s no limit to what we’ll do—or buy—for our beloved four-legged family members. The $200 billion business is a testament to the range of products available. While many consumers shop online or patronize big box specialty stores, Pet Pantry Warehouse has found a purr-fect way to stand out.

When Samuel Diaz III learned the term “Renaissance Man” as a kid, he decided to make it his mission to personify this type of multifaceted individual. Following college, the Stratford native found a way to pursue his passions for karate and music while launching a successful career in the healthcare industry.

Thomas “TJ” Bepko is a Fairfield success story. As a Fairfield native, TJ has fond memories of Gould Manor Park, Coon’s Corner, and Stefano’s -- and his first job at Pizzaworks (a 90’s staple in Fairfield, which was in the current space of Pokemoto). After graduating from college and serving in the U.S. Army, he embarked on an entrepreneurial path that ultimately led him back to Fairfield.

28 year old Jamie Palazzo is well-known in Fairfield for his infectious smile and his fascination with technology. Some say he’s charming, others say he can be... bossy. He spent high school surrounded by his three closest girlfriends. He’s been the topic of more than one college application essay. Oh yeah, and he’s spent his life in a wheelchair, as a result of Cerebral Palsy.