The Women’s Center Annual Dinner, An Evening Together, will be held Friday, June 18th starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Amber Room Colonnade. There will be socially distanced indoor and outdoor seating and a virtual option, so everyone can attend according to their comfort level.
The Women’s Center is pleased to announce that Ridgefield resident, businessperson and restauranteur Raffaele Gallo will be the recipient of this year’s Founders Award for his philanthropic support of the Women’s Center and the entire Ridgefield community.
Elaine Cox of Ridgefield, Women’s Center Board Member, explained why Raffaele was an obvious choice for this award. “One of the many delights of dining at Gallo is being greeted by that large warm smile and hearing, ‘Bueno Sera’ as you see Raffaele at the door. There is not an organization in the Ridgefield area that has not benefitted from Raffaele’s help in some way, from donating numerous “Dining for 10” live auction items to hosting Celebrity Bartending nights.
During the pandemic, Raffaele and his staff continued to cook for the masses and deliver to those who could not pick up. Raffaele is not only a fantastic restaurateur, but a warm-hearted neighbor and caring friend to all. This is why we at the Women’s Center have decided to present the Founders Award to Raffaele Gallo for his incredible generosity not only to us but our entire community.”
Glori Norwitt of Ridgefield, current Secretary of the Board, will be also be celebrated for her eight years of service as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Women’s Center. Current Chair Eric Eggan of Newtown, praised Glori for her years of service. “Glori Norwitt is an inspiration. Her strong leadership of our Board over 8 years; her devotion to our mission; and her support of our programs has been central to the growth and success of the organization. The Center is lucky that a person of Glori’s skills, character and commitment has devoted her energies to our work. It will be an honor to celebrate her at the 2021 Annual Dinner.”
An Evening Together and this year’s hashtag, #survivortothriver, are more important than ever.
“2020 was a difficult year for many of us. Early in the pandemic a harrowing reality was painted, highlighting how physically and psychologically dangerous the lockdown has been for those living in abusive homes. Participating in the Women’s Center annual dinner has given me an opportunity to give back to an important group of survivors that need support now more than ever. 2020 has also left many of us feeling disengaged with our community. The annual dinner is a great way to get reconnected and give back to a worthy cause,” said Event Co-Chair and Board Member, Courtney Elliott of Ridgefield.
During the pandemic, the Women’s Center continued to serve more than 25,000 individuals annually from a 13-town service area covering Northern Fairfield and Southern Litchfield Counties. Residential shelter Elizabeth House never closed, counselors and education outreach quickly pivoted to remote offerings, and all services continued to be provided 24 hours a day/7 days a week/365 days a year, at no charge.
In addition to entertainment provided by MC/Comedian Christine O’Leary, there will be a #survivortothriver video presentation highlighting the success of a Women’s Center client who is thriving today. The video was produced by RmediA of Danbury. An online auction filled with gift certificates, items, trips, and experiences will be available for bidding starting a week before the event. Anyone can register and bid.
Co-Chair and Board Member Vicki Taylor-Bloch of New Fairfield, concluded, “The Women's Center self generates 50% of their annual revenue through charity events. Co-chairing An Evening Together is my way to give back to this incredible organization in appreciation of their critical work. Please join us on June 18th at the Amber Room to learn about no cost programs and services provided in your community."
To purchase tickets, sponsorships or ads, please visit: www.wcogd.org or contact Linda Cummins, Special Events Manager, at 203-731-5200 x232 or linda.c@wcogd.org.