Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield Sets Sail to a Successful 2024 Annual Gala

April 12, 2024

STRATFORD, CT – Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County is delighted to announce the success of its Annual Gala, “Set Sail to Habitat Island,” which raised essential funds to advance the construction of future affordable homes within its service area.

The Gala, hosted at the Woodway Country Club in Darien, CT, was sold out. Two hundred and twenty attendees enjoyed a performance by Anthem Band, a dinner, and the excitement of both silent and live auctions.

In recognition of their exemplary commitment to community, several individuals and organizations were honored during the event. M&T Bank received the Corporate Citizenship Award, while Harlan Stone and HMTX were recognized with the Second Mile Award. Volunteer of the Year Award was posthumously awarded to Victor Ryan Forbes.

While accepting the Volunteer of the Year award on behalf of her son, Carolyn Nelson stated, “Volunteering at Habitat was a natural fit for Ryan… He brought people together, united by a common goal to make a difference. His family and friends plan to continue volunteering in his memory.”

Reflecting on the evening’s significance, Harlan Stone, long-time Habitat for Humanity supporter, stated, “This is what God intended for us – to not think about ourselves but to think about other people. To help other people, give them hope, and give them a chance to succeed because every human being must be valued.”

Tamara Francis, a future Habitat homeowner, shared her heartfelt journey towards homeownership, highlighting the profound impact it will have on her family’s future. “For me, this journey represents more than just homeownership. It’s the embodiment of my dreams and my hopes for a future filled with happiness and peace – not just for myself, but for both my daughters and generations to come.”

In celebration of the Gala’s success, Carolyn Vermont, CEO of Habitat CFC, stated, “The success of our Gala serves as a testament to the power of collective action in creating lasting change within our communities. The funds raised will fuel our mission’s transformative impact, providing deserving families with the opportunity for a better life.”

With each dollar raised, Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County moves closer to its vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to call home. Spanning from Greenwich to Stratford, Habitat CFC’s service area encompasses all coastal towns and cities, serving as a beacon of hope for families in need.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity CFC and how to support its mission, visit habitatcfc.org.

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