The Rotary Club of New Canaan’s 39th Annual Lobsterfest at the Steve Benko Pool Pavilion was a resounding success, thanks to our wonderful community’s support.
We’re grateful to our sponsors, whose contributions cover most of our costs, allowing ticket sales to directly fund our annual Grant Awards. Our partnership with Fjord Seafood and Walter Stewarts Market for food preparation has been invaluable since 2020.
Lobsterfest has become a beloved tradition, offering dine-in, take-out, and home delivery options. The growing number of dinner parties centered around our event reflects its popularity.
Our special deliveries to Staying Put members are particularly meaningful, representing the heart of our community service. Staying Put is an organization that helps older residents remain in their homes and stay connected to the community. For many of these members, our Lobsterfest delivery might be a rare treat and a welcome connection to the broader New Canaan community.
A heartfelt note from Alice Byrd, a Staying Put member, beautifully captured why we do what we do, embodying our motto: “Service Above Self.” Alice’s words reminded us that seemingly small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. Her gratitude not only for the meal but for the personal interaction highlights how our service extends beyond just providing food—it’s about creating moments of joy, fostering community connections, and showing our senior neighbors that they are valued and remembered.
These interactions are equally rewarding for our Rotary members. The simple act of delivering a lobster dinner becomes a meaningful exchange, often leading to cherished conversations and new friendships. It reinforces the idea that true community service is about building relationships and understanding the needs of all our neighbors, regardless of age or circumstance.
Through these deliveries, we’re not just distributing meals; we’re nurturing the social fabric of New Canaan, bridging generational gaps, and ensuring that our older residents remain an integral part of our community life. This embodies the essence of Rotary’s mission and reminds us why community service is so vital and fulfilling.
In the coming weeks, our members will continue making connections as we deliver over 150 First Responder Dinners generously purchased by the community. There’s still time to support this effort at www.newcanaanrotarylobsterfest.org.
On behalf of the New Canaan Rotary Club, we extend our deepest gratitude to the entire New Canaan Community for making this event a true testament to community spirit.
Leo Karl III
Lobsterfest Event Chair
Rotary Club of New Canaan
