Chamber Foundation raises nearly $110,000 to help children

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation raised $109,555 at its 29th annual Holiday Gala at the Mohegan Sun.

             Lou Ziegler, the foundation’s board chair who headed up the effort, praised the community for responding in such a generous fashion. 

 “The commitment of the community shines its brightest during the Holiday Gala each and every year for the children of Eastern Connecticut,” he said. “I cannot thank enough those who responded to our call and helped put together this great event.

 A special thanks goes to our planning committee, our volunteers, sponsors, Chamber staff, Sam Piotrkowski our energetic auctioneer, Kevin Hogan of WFSB, our superb master of ceremonies, along with the Mohegan Tribe and Mohegan Sun.”

 The event took place Dec. 7 in the Uncas Ballroom at the Sun. Between a silent auction, followed by a live one, there were 132 items that went to the highest bidders.  In addition, there were 15 door prizes distributed.

 In the coming weeks, the committee will be meeting to review grant applications from eligible non-profit groups that serve children. 

Last year the foundation awarded $86,200 in grants to 21 local organizations that provide services to children from Eastern Connecticut. The announcement was made at the Chamber’s office, 914 Hartford Turnpike, Waterford. 

Since 2002, the Chamber Foundation has donated $768,214 to numerous local organizations that serve the needs of children, specifically those groups that address the Foundation’s goal of funding projects which enhance and enrich education and economic opportunities in the Chamber’s service area.