Paul Hammer Memorial Fund

Paul Hammer was a beloved fixture of New Haven community organizing and activism, widely known for his passion, wit and humor, and for his love of the city he called home.

Paul's preferred mode of transportation was the bicycle, and he was a tireless advocate for making cycling safer and more accessible for everyone. He taught hundreds of children as a certified instructor with the League of American Bicyclists. He served as the president of the Connecticut Bicycle Coalition and volunteered with the Bradley Street Bicycle Co-op, fixing bicycles to give away to recently resettled refugees and residents who were recently incarcerated.

Paul also helped refugees as a volunteer and advocate for IRIS, and gave his time an energy to many other causes and community groups. Paul was a passionate supporter of and participant in community theater, and was an active member of the New Haven Friends Quaker community.

An activist for many causes, Paul was devoted to promoting peace and justice, most recently as part of the campaign to stop solitary confinement in Connecticut.

Paul was outspoken in raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention, and was open about his own mental health struggles in order to help others.

The Paul Hammer Fund was established by friends of Paul and members of the Elm City Cycling collaborative to honor Paul's memory and his deep commitment to New Haven, including cycling education and promotion, artistic expression and supporting vulnerable people, including refugees.