Newtown Animal Sanctuary Earns Awards For Leadership, Excellence

NEWTOWN, CT — The Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary has received two Gold Stevie Awards in the 2025 American Business Awards, earning recognition as Non-Profit Organization of the Year and honoring President Jennifer Hubbard as Thought Leader of the Year.

The Stevie Awards, among the most prominent business accolades globally, spotlight achievements across a wide range of industries. More than 12,000 nominations are submitted annually.

“This award celebrates our innovative approach and real impact on animals, people, and the environment,” said Hubbard. “It affirms the strength of our vision and the power of community support in bringing it to life.”

Founded in 2013 to honor Catherine Violet Hubbard, a six-year-old victim of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, the sanctuary promotes animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and humane education. Located on 34 acres in Newtown, the sanctuary offers hiking and equestrian trails, pollinator habitats, and educational programming for all ages.

Hubbard’s individual award highlights her leadership and advocacy in advancing the sanctuary’s mission.

“These honors are not just about achievement. They are about the people and the movement behind them—every volunteer, donor, supporter, and friend who believes in our mission,” Hubbard.

The sanctuary’s recent efforts include its Senior Paw Project, which supports senior pet owners in Connecticut and Massachusetts with monthly pet food delivery, veterinary care, and foster services.

Award recipients will be celebrated at a June 10 gala in New York City. More information about the sanctuary’s initiatives is available here.

“This is a win for all of us,” Hubbard said. “Together, we’ve proven that kindness has the power
to transform communities.”