Printer Friendly Version - Creative Thinking: Hackett Envisions Exciting CDR Art Gala and Auction

Patrick Hackett, the new fundraising coordinator for Community Dining Room (CDR), is organizing CDR’s Art Gala and Auction on Sunday, April 28 from 2 to 5 p.m. at beautiful Millpond Gatherings in Northford. CDR serves the towns of Branford, North Branford, East Haven, and Guilford. Photo courtesy of CDR

As the new fundraising coordinator for Community Dining Room (CDR), Patrick Hackett is putting his creative energy into organizing the CDR’s Art Gala and Auction set for Sunday, April 28 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the beautiful Millpond Gatherings in Northford. More than 30 original works of art by talented local artists will make up the gala’s gallery display and auction roster.

“The shoreline area is full of incredible artists who are so generous. I’ve seen some absolutely beautiful pieces,” says Patrick. “We have fine art paintings, photography, mixed media pieces, and more. We even have a custom-made kaleidoscope, which is incredible.”

One of the items up for auction, “Peace Dove,” was created by Dawn Perrotti, the CDR volunteer arts and crafts instructor, who made the piece together with children served by CDR.

Each of the event’s contributing artists are donating all auction sales directly to CDR. Their art will be auctioned off based on a range of suggested price points which have been provided by the artists.

Based in Branford, non-profit CDR provides nutritious free meals, as well as additional support programs and services, to community members of Branford, North Branford, East Haven, and Guilford.

In addition to the auction excitement, the gala will serve up unlimited wine and domestic beer, together with an hour featuring passed hors d’oeuvres and a charcuterie table for the extent of the event. Patrick said the rustic charm of the event room at Millpond Gatherings, paired with excellent service, beverages, and food, will further elevate the artful experience he’s planning for gala guests.

“Millpond Gatherings is utterly amazing and really worked with us to make sure there is little bit of something for everyone,” says Patrick.

Patrick is also grateful to the event’s auction emcee, John “Cadillac” Saville, who will call the live auction. The gala also features a silent auction.

Patrick has been busy gathering donations of art, as well as sponsors, to assist with supporting the event. The gala’s presenting sponsor is Solidification Products International. Additional event sponsors are Guilford Savings Bank, Branford Community Foundation, The Guilford Foundation, Madison Foundation, M&T Bank, and Act II Thrift Shop.

Patrick grew up in East Haven and returned to live in his hometown after college. He first became familiar with CDR through his work with an agency supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.

“One of my individuals volunteered here washing dishes for CDR, and so I got really familiar with the organization by working with them here,” says Patrick. “It’s great, meaningful work. When I found this job, I couldn’t be more excited to work here and to work with Judy Barron. I love what I do, and I just want to keep helping people.”

Barron, CDR’s executive director, is working to uphold CDR’s “More than Just a Meal“ mission at a time when area families continue to face the increasing cost of food, basic items, and services.

Proceeds from the CDR Art Gala and Auction will directly support CDR in its ongoing efforts, says Patrick.

“With increase of costs, this will help us keep going, day-to-day,” he says.

Patrick is looking forward to developing many more exciting fundraising events and programs to support the work of CDR, while also providing a great experience for those who are contributing to the cause.

“I want to make sure we’re doing the best we can to support our neighbors in need. We want to continue to be ‘more than just a meal’ for everyone who comes through our doors,” says Patrick. “My plan is to have events where you’re giving back to your community while you’re also having a really good time.”

CDR’s Art Gala and Auction is on Sunday, April 28 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Millpond Gatherings in Northford at 1565 Middletown Avenue. Gala tickets, at $60 per person and $100 per couple, are available in advance by calling 203-747-6230, via email at fundraising@communitydiningroom.org, or may be purchased at the door on April 28.