“Our annual gala, Experience Nature, celebrated the beauty of nature and highlighted Audubon’s programs to educate and protect birds and other wildlife,” said Stewart Hudson, Executive Director of Audubon Connecticut. Real birds and bees brought nature alive for guests at the organization’s annual fundraiser, held at the Belle Haven Club in Greenwich, CT on April 12, 2017. Camera feeds—including live osprey and fox den cams—ran throughout the evening so guests could watch nature in action while raising funds for feathered and furry friends.
Photographs from noted artist Melissa Groo, wildlife photographer, writer, and conservationist, filled the room. Groo also received the Katie O’Brien Lifetime Achievement Award. Local, sustainable, and organic food was provided by Back 40 Farm Group; owners Lesley & Bill King of Back 40 Farm group. The Kings received the Audubon Connecticut Corporate Award. Finally, former U.S. Environment Protection Agency administrator Gina McCarthy was recognized with the Environmental Leadership Award; she is known for her role in arranging a global agreement on climate protection.
Auctioneer George McNeely led the silent auction to benefit Audubon CT’s incredible work for the environment and conservation throughout the state (from the inner city to rural areas). An upcoming conservation-minded fashion designer displayed an Audubon-inspired dress, showing a stylish interpretation of the cause. “It was a great evening which generated significant support for these programs, and reflected our community’s commitment to preserving nature at home, and across Connecticut.”
Audubon Connecticut is the state office of the National Audubon Society. It works to protect not only birds but other wildlife and their habitats through various initiatives, including education, research conversation and legislative advocacy.
[envira-gallery id=”19874″]
Photographs by Cheryl Moss
