On September 6th, the Waveny Park Conservancy proudly marked its 10th anniversary with a spectacular evening that drew a sold-out crowd of 315 guests. The reception and tented dinner on Waveny’s lawn was only the second gala in the Conservancy’s history. The celebration reflected the community’s deep appreciation for Waveny Park and raised over $200,000 to support the Conservancy’s mission of preserving and enhancing this historic jewel of New Canaan.
The event featured the premiere of a short documentary capturing how the community experiences Waveny Park – from Pops in the Park and July 4th fireworks to tranquil woodland walks, family gatherings, and the mental and physical benefits of scenic open space. The video was warmly received and will soon be made available to the broader community through the Conservancy’s website: http://wavenyparkconservancy.org
Event emcee Christian Murphy orchestrated presentations by Conservancy and town leaders and later led guests through a rousing set of paddle raise donations in support of the Conservancy’s future.
“Waveny is more than just open space—it’s central to the culture and identity of New Canaan,” said Fell Herdeg, Chairman of the Waveny Park Conservancy. “It’s where generations gather, connect, and celebrate. Without Waveny, our town would be markedly different. The Conservancy exists to make sure Waveny continues to thrive for decades to come.”
“The Waveny Park Conservancy is an extraordinary example of community partnership,” commented New Canaan First Selectman Dionna Carlson. “Thanks to their leadership and the generosity of residents,
Waveny is not only preserved, but continually enhanced as a living resource for all. This anniversary is a celebration of both what has been achieved and the exciting future that lies ahead.”
Since its founding in 2015, the Conservancy has worked closely with the Town to preserve, restore, and enhance Waveny Park’s historic landscapes and features. Major accomplishments include the restoration of the Eberle Fountain, meadow and woodland transformations supported by the Jeniam Foundation, the revival of Anderson Pond, extensive landscaping around Waveny House and Park entrances, upgraded maintenance, amenities and more.
Looking ahead, the Conservancy has commissioned plans for the Merritt Trail Project, which could transform one of the Park’s most challenging areas by reducing highway noise and improving the overall trail experience.
Executive Director Michelle Crookenden thanked the many patrons and partners who make the Conservancy’s work possible. Event sponsors included Bankwell (lead sponsor), Caffeine & Carburetors, Earth Garden, Karl Chevrolet, the Engel Team at Douglas Elliman, New Canaan Community Foundation, Rucci Law Group, Silver Hill Hospital, Town Players of New Canaan, and Waveny Lifecare Network.
The September 6th celebration underscored how deeply New Canaan values Waveny Park, and how vital community support is to its future. Donations of any size directly sustain park maintenance, restoration, and enhancement projects.
For information on tribute giving, legacy gifts, matching gifts, and other ways to give, donors may go to http://wavenyparkconservancy.org/donate or reach the Conservancy at
info@wavenyparkconservancy.org
