Seen on the Scene: Trackside’s 20th Anniversary and Woodcock’s Harvest Moon Celebrations [PHOTOS]

Over the weekend two GOOD Wilton organizations invited communities in to celebrate their achievements and missions.

Woodcock Nature Center “Under the Harvest Moon” Fundraiser

On Friday, Sept. 20, Woodcock Nature Center hosted its annual fall celebration, Under the Harvest Moon, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds support Woodcock’s environmental education initiatives including local outreach, school programs, scholarships and a variety of family and adult education activities aimed at connecting the community with nature.

Attendees dressed in “campground chic” attire noshed on “dinner by the bite” by local chef Sarah Bouïssou of Ridgefield’s Á Table in and around Woodcock’s picturesque candlelit pavilion and pond. While listening to the live music of the local band Present Company, guests enjoyed a wine selection and Nod Hill Brewery‘s craft brews as well as offerings from Litchfield Distillery.

The Nature Center depends heavily on fundraising events and donations to run its 152-acre nature preserve and unique environmental education programs, so Woodcock Executive Director Lenore Eggleston Herbst said she was thrilled that the evening of food, music and community was able to raise $50,000.

Herbst added that the campaign is still ongoing for anyone who wishes to donate, online.

Trackside Teen Center 20th Anniversary

On Saturday night, Sept. 21, people turned out to raise a glass in honor of Trackside Teen Center’s 20th Anniversary. The night was another celebratory event filled with music, food, raffle prizes, and heartfelt words by Trackside Program Director John Priest, First Selectwoman Toni Boucher and Executive Director Lori Fields. 

In her remarks to guests, Fields told them why Trackside is such an important resource for Wilton’s teens and town. 

“Having a place to belong and people who hold space for you as you experiment, express and fumble your way through figuring out who you are is essential during our teenage years. Feeling like you matter and belong, regardless of grades, performance or preferences offers a layer of protection; it’s the life vest that keeps us afloat when the waters get rough.”

In advance of the evening, Trackside officials set a goal of raising $20,000 in honor of the anniversary. As of press time, Fields said that the organization is still about $5,000 shy of reaching that goal and that officials have extended the fundraiser through the end of September.