The week of July 21, Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary announced that construction is complete on its new educational facility called Catherine’s Learning Barn — a poignant nod to the sanctuary’s namesake and 12/14 victim, Catherine Violet Hubbard.

The 3,400 square foot facility serves as a state-of-the-art space designed to host hands-on educational programs, low and no cost community events, corporate retreats, and private gatherings. The learning barn also includes a fully equipped commercial kitchen to support event catering and local food initiatives. The project is the first step towards the main building, allowing an expansion of programming and services while preparing for the bigger construction project that will be a certified Living Building including a veterinary in-take center, library, and welcome center.

Jenny Hubbard, Catherine’s mother and the president of Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, said, “We are thrilled to announce the opening of Catherine’s Learning Barn.” Hubbard added, “What was shaped by hope and hard work, now stands ready to welcome learners of all ages into a space built for wonder, compassion, and connection.”

To share this incredible milestone with the public, the sanctuary will host several open houses at Catherine’s Learning Barn at 8 Commerce Road in Newtown. The next open house for the general public will be Sunday, August 17, 3-5 pm.

While Catherine’s Learning Barn is now complete, the facility will only be open to the public for designated programs and events. For information about booking a private program or event, please contact lking@cvhfoundation.org.

The construction of Catherine’s Learning Barn began in October 2024. Two months later in December, the community came together for a heartwarming, old-fashioned barn raising, echoing a tradition of neighbors helping neighbors, building not just a structure but a future. From the first shovel in the ground, to final inspections and finishing touches, Catherine’s Learning Barn has been a labor of love, supported in part by Connecticut businesses and supporters including Country Carpenters, PH Architects, Verdi Construction, HAFSCO, and e2 Engineers.

For more information on Catherine’s Learning Barn and Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, please visit cvhfoundation.org.