With lots of spring in their step, more than 400 spirited supporters from the Greater Danbury area and beyond filled the Amber Room Colonnade at 7:30 a.m. for RVNAhealth’s 24th Annual Spring Breakfast. A beloved tradition and a powerful celebration, the event honored a nonprofit that’s been a vital thread in the region’s fabric for 107 years.
As table hosts poured fresh coffee and the buzz of conversation grew, the ballroom filled with the sound of laughter and connection. MJ Heller, RVNAhealth’s Director of Philanthropy, had the good-natured challenge of bringing the crowd to a hush so the morning’s program could begin. She welcomed the group warmly, offering gratitude for their presence and vital support of RVNAhealth’s mission across 36 towns and communities.
Garrett Walkup, RVNAhealth’s Manager of Bereavement, Social Work, and Pastoral Care, gave the invocation before guests were served a breakfast of quiche and fruit.
President and CEO Theresa Santoro then addressed the crowd, offering sincere thanks and powerful updates. She spoke of RVNAhealth’s steadfast dedication to its continuum of care—ranging from home health and hospice to wellness programs, dementia support, and the newly launched Parkinson’s Center. She also shared exciting news: RVNAhealth is now a participating member of the HSS Rehabilitation National Network. This means patients right in Ridgefield can access world-class orthopedic and rehabilitation care through RVNAhealth’s Therapy Center, in collaboration with the nationally renowned Hospital for Special Surgery.
One of the morning’s most memorable moments came courtesy of Impact Speaker Andy Greenfield, a Danbury native and successful entrepreneur. Greenfield gave a moving account of his family’s experience navigating his parents’ health challenges with the help of RVNAhealth. “It’s not just people doing a job,” he said. “These are people who care. They’re focused on creating solutions, not barriers.” He pointed to staff in the room—including Chief Operating Officer Melissa Woodhouse—who had worked closely with his family. Greenfield recalled how one of his parents’ caregivers even sang Frank Sinatra songs to his mother. “They made us feel like my mom and dad were their only patients,” he said, “even when we knew they weren’t.” He also praised Santoro’s leadership, noting that a culture of care like RVNAhealth’s doesn’t happen by accident. “It comes from the top.”
Following the live auction, raffle winners were announced—drawn from more than 60 themed baskets filled with indulgent, practical, and playful gifts. From Health & Wellness to Coffee & Sweets, Spirits, Gardening, and Sports, each was made possible by the generosity of local businesses and community members.
Proceeds from the morning help fuel RVNAhealth’s programs, offering vital services like Well Child Clinics, flu shots, and nursing and rehabilitation care for seniors. No matter the age, diagnosis, or financial circumstances, RVNAhealth continues to deliver compassionate care where and when it’s needed most.
It was, in every sense, a breakfast of champions. And a perfect way to start the day.
Photographer Deborah O’Brien captured the energy and emotion of the event beautifully. To view more images, visit RVNAhealth on Instagram and Facebook, and learn more about how this 107-year-old organization continues to shape the future of health and wellness in our communities.