To The Editor:

On Saturday, May 2, our community came together in a remarkable way at Newtown Congregational Church for a benefit concert that truly showcased the power of music, generosity, and inclusion. With more than 200 attendees, 27 talented musicians — ranging from local professionals to performers on the autism spectrum, 6 dancers, and Nick’s Catering, the afternoon was both inspiring and unforgettable.

The program “Color Our World with Hope” featured a lively “dash from the past” with music made famous by Chicago, highlighted by an outstanding horn section that brought energy and joy to the performance. Following the concert, guests gathered in the Great Room for our Rainbow Raffle Stroll, including 60 raffle items, a silent auction, and a live auction created an atmosphere of excitement and community spirit.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of those who attended, donated, and supported this event, we are proud to share that over $15,000 was raised, along with an additional $1,000 contributed by Newtown High School students for our “Angel of Hope” Dr. Margaret Bauman, to support her brain research at the Autism Research Foundation.

We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from businesses and donors to volunteers and attendees. The contributions were so numerous that it would take pages to properly recognize everyone involved. This event was truly a collective effort which took an entire village, and perhaps even an army, working together to make a meaningful difference.

To all who played a part in making this day such a success, we thank you!

Linda and Duane Jones

F.U.N. Founders

Sandy Hook