EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — “My name is Michelle Perez. I go by Mickey,” said Perez, who also answers to a nickname given to her by those she serves: "The Super Jet Brunette."

Her nonprofit in Connecticut by the same name supports both kids and veterans seeking a career in STEM through a mix of career development and community events.

“Our organization focuses on veterans and enlisted. We do career coaching, resume building, but then with the kids, we will do the same thing and host free activities for them,” Perez explained.

That mission was put in jeopardy earlier this year. Perez was one of thousands laid off by aerospace giant Pratt & Whitney in January, a blow to her income and the programs she funds.

Then, disaster struck again in the form of a flood.

“When I came home, I immediat

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