2024 Child of America Gala Committee: L-R, Cara Kelly, Kasey Pinchin, Julie Bennett, Kellee Abdelwahab, Jennifer Ryan
The Carver 2024 Child of America Gala was an extraordinary evening that celebrated the power of philanthropy and the commitment to enriching the lives of children in Norwalk and beyond.
The gala exceeded its goal of $500,000, including two special gifts made in honor of Novelette’s 20th anniversary of leading The Carver, one for $50,000 and one for $20,000.
See photo Album 1 and Album 2 here on Facebook! See another set of photos here: Reception #1, Reception #2, Reception #3, Dinner #1, Dinner #2, Dinner #3 and Dinner #4.
This highly anticipated annual event, the cornerstone fundraiser for Carver's vital after-school, summer, and community programs, surpassed all expectations.
Novelette Peterkin, who celebrated her 20th anniversary as Carver’s CEO, and the 2024 Child of America honree, Dr. Darrick Hamilton.
The evening commenced with a lavish cocktail reception at Shorehaven Golf Club, where attendees mingled, enjoyed exquisite hors d'oeuvres, and listened to the melodies of the fabulous live band led by Carver alumna Gabi Pierre-Louise. Mayor Rilling welcomed the gathering of friends, setting the tone for a night of celebration and impact.
The main event unfolded in the club's elegantly appointed ballroom, where guests indulged in a sumptuous three-course dinner expertly prepared by the renowned culinary team. Throughout the night, distinguished guests, including Connecticut's Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, graced the stage, and inspiring videos and greetings from Carver's leadership shed light on the organization's invaluable work and profound impact on the lives of children and families in the community.
Mr. and Mrs. Phil Butterfield. Phil Butterfield is President of The Carver Board of Directors
The evening's honorees, Dr. Darrick Hamilton and Sound Control Technologies, embodied Carver's spirit of empowerment and community-building. Dr. Hamilton, the Henry Cohen Professor of Economics and Urban Policy at The New School and the founding director of the Institute on Race, Power, and Political Economy, has established himself as a prominent public intellectual, crafting groundbreaking policy proposals that address socioeconomic disparities.
Each a longtime Carver friend, advocate, and benefactor, Connecticut’s Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, Susan Wienberger, and Carol Bauer
Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland family, recognized as the 2024 "Community Builder" Honoree, were celebrated for their commitment to supporting the local community and remarkable contributions to Carver's mission.
The 2024 Child of America Gala was a testament to the power of philanthropy and the commitment to providing opportunities for children to thrive.
By attending this prestigious event, guests enjoyed an evening of elegance and merriment and contributed to a noble cause shaping our youth's future.
The Carver extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who attended and supported this magical night of celebration and impact.
