For the third year in a row, Darien and New Canaan will face off to see which town can capture the title of “Most Generous Town” by raising the most funds for either the Community Fund of Darien or the New Canaan Community Foundation.
This year, the competition begins today and ends on Thanksgiving Day.
— an announcement from the Community Fund of Darien
Closeup from a photo from Community Fund of Darien
The Golden Turkey Trophy. The highest award Darien could ever possibly receive. Get another dollop of that tryptophanic triumph for this town’s plate, please.
Donors can contribute to the Community Fund of Darien by texting 06820 to 44321 during this time period or by visiting CommunityFundDarien.org.
The winning town will own the “Turkey Trophy” and bragging rights for the year, and their residents will take pride in the knowledge that their community makes charitable giving a priority.
Inspired by Giving Tuesday, the post-Thanksgiving global day of giving that kicks off the holiday charity season, the two organizations created the event as a way to use their residents’ competitive spirit to benefit our neighbors in need.
This much-needed financial support addresses critical local needs such as homelessness, hunger, mental and physical health, substance abuse, youth services and more.
“We love the idea of reshaping the historical Turkey Bowl rivalry between Darien and New Canaan into a force for good,” noted Janet King, executive director for the Community Fund of Darien. “Harnessing that competitive energy and seeing who can help others the most is a win for both towns.”
- EDITORIAL: It is not enough that Darien win this competition. Like the dog said about the cats in that New Yorker cartoon: It is necessary that New Canaan LOSE it. They WON it last year. Are you going to take that from them, Darien? Are ya?
Photo from New Canaan Community Foundation
You want to see this happen again, Darien? Do ya? Janet King, the Community Fund of Darien’s executive director, awards the trophy in 2018 to Kevin Moynihan, New Canaan’s first selectman, and Lauren Patterson, New Canaan Community Foundation’s president & CEO. Oh, the shame — the shame!
After winning the inaugural competition, last year Darien was edged out by a slim margin. Both organizations benefited from the rivalry, collectively raising nearly $155,000 to support local nonprofits.
Founded in 1951, the Community Fund of Darien plays a significant role in addressing health and human service needs in Darien, Norwalk, and Stamford through strategic leadership and grant-making.
Funding goals prioritize basic needs, self-sufficiency, youth success, and community initiatives. Since its inception, the Community Fund of Darien has distributed over $20 million to local nonprofit organizations and community initiatives.