Ridgebury Farm’s Sold-Out Fundraiser Draws 300 Guests In Ridgefield

RIDGEFIELD, CT — Ridgebury Farm hosted more than 300 guests Sept. 20 for its annual Farm Fete, a sold-out fundraiser supporting equine-assisted therapy programs.

The event raised money for the nonprofit’s GROW Program (Giving Resources for Optimal Wellness), which provides hippotherapy, equine-assisted psychotherapy and nature-based therapy to people with disabilities, regardless of their ability to pay.

Award-winning comedian Christine O’Leary emceed the evening, which featured cocktails at sunset, farm-to-table dining, food trucks Colony Pizza and Bubble and Brew, and live music from Band Central with Tommy Weeks and James “Fuzz” Sangiovanni, along with DJ sets by Nico.

Honorees Recognized

The Ridgebury Farm Impact Award went to Stephen Wooters for his support of the farm and the wider community. The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to 16-year-old Nicole Capone, who logged more than 500 volunteer hours in the past year.

Community Leaders Attend

Notable guests included U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, First Selectman Rudy Marconi, and several local families and supporters. Organizers said their presence highlighted the community’s commitment to expanding access to Ridgebury’s therapy services.

Sponsors And Support

Sponsors included Four Seasons Racquet Club, Manfredi Jewels, The Will Stuart Team, Fairfield County Bank, Band Central, Chef Paul, Factory Underground, and Guilded Lynx. Ridgebury officials said their contributions were critical to the event’s success.

Looking Ahead

Funds raised will directly support the expansion of the GROW Program, which provides therapy designed to improve physical, emotional and social well-being.

“The Farm Fete is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of our incredible community,” said Katy Schermann, Ridgebury’s executive director and board chair. “Because of the generosity we witnessed on Saturday night, Ridgebury Farm will be able to extend the unmatched healing power of horses to even more individuals and families who need it most.”

For more information about Ridgebury Farm and the GROW Program, visit ridgeburyfarm.org.