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More than 260 guests celebrated at the Under The Tuscan STARS fund-raiser and gala to benefit STAR, the nonprofit organization serving infants, children and adults with developmental disabilities. The gala was held on Nov. 9 at Woodway Country Club in Darien and among the guests were U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, U.S. Rep. Jim Hines and State Rep. Gail Lavielle. The money raised will help support STAR programs in Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Wilton and Weston.
“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our local communities in addressing the needs and improving the lives of people with disabilities. For our event to have grown to this level of success is a testament to our volunteers, families, sponsors and staff whose dedication to our mission is impassioned and unwavering," said STAR Executive Director Katie Banzhaf, who celebrated her 30th Anniversary at STAR this year.
Guests bid on nearly 100 silent auction items including skiing, camping, yoga, Cape Cod and local hotel getaways, gourmet delicacies provided by local Italian eateries such as Romanacci Café, LaRocca’s Country Market, Quattro Pazzi, Pane e Bene, Osteria Romana, and Pasquale’s Osteria. Home and gift items were also available for auction from local businesses such as Helen Ainson, Good Directions, Maclaren N.A., Cook’s Nook, West Elm, Design Within Reach, Oriental Furnishings, Juliska and Simon Pearce.
Guests then listened to testimonials about the impact of STAR’s work in the community from Rosemary Lovello of Greenwich, Caroline Cioffi and Susan Weber of New Canaan, Caroline Hoffman, Claudette Nash and Denise Sapione of Norwalk, and Andrew Stefanou of Andrew Stefanou Salon and Spa of Darien.
The gala committee was led by Rob and Meghan Cioffi of New Canaan, Mary Ferrara and John Masanotti of Darien and Joseph and Nella Viesta of Stamford.
For more information about STAR, Inc., Lighting the Way, visit the STAR website or call 203-846-9581, ext. 302.
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