The Darien Depot Youth Center held its 2017 winter fundraiser at the Darien Community Center. This year’s event, Viva Las Vegas, brought the vibe of Vegas to Darien. The evening featured live and silent auctions, music by DJ Chance, food by Four Forks Catering and cocktail from Leary’s Liquor Cabinet.
Fundraising co-chairs Melissa Cutler and Gina Vivenzio secured online bidding technology for the party through 501 Auction, thus enabling supporters to bid and donate on their smartphones even if they were unable to attend the actual event. This made for exciting bidding wars throughout the evening.
Guests were delighted by the stories of engaging Depot youth volunteers. They included Colin Ruppenstein, Hudson Pokorny, Charlie Walsh, Luke Sini, Patrick Burke, Will Culliton, Peyton Murray, Emma Lesko, Annie Arrix, Kit Arrix, Ellen Ferguson, Annabel Hartigan, Avery Brooke, Catherine Arrix , Emma Cavoli, Olivia Stein, Daphne Cutler and Grace Feingold. These outspoken students told of the many ways that the Depot enables them to give back, make an impact and serve the greater good of the community
Darien Police Chief Duane Lovello and Officer Courtney Isaac were also in attendance to show their support. And Depot Program Director Janice Marzano was also on hand to enjoy the evening among so many people whose lives she has positively impacted.
Auctioneers Steve Cavoli and Charlie Hannigan poured incredible effort and passion into getting people to open their hearts and wallets to support the youth center. Sponsors included Wheels Up, Inspirato, Lanphier Day Spa, JetBlue, The Nantucket Project, Four Forks, Travel15 and Leary’s Liquor Cabinet.
All proceeds go directly to supporting the Depot’s student and adult community programs and events. The Darien Depot is a safe and collaborative youth center where community needs are addressed with guidance from staff.
