POUGHKEEPSIE, NY - Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley honored two area couples who personify community service on Sunday, October 6, when the regional philanthropic organization held its 2013 Garden Party. Over 400 people turned out to honor J. Joseph and Mary McGowan and Glenn B. Sutherland and Cynthia A. Lowe at the annual Garden Party, which was held at the All Canter Farm, the home of Dr. Joel Canter in Stanfordville.

The fundraising event is presented annually to recognize outstanding community service while demonstrating the ongoing work of the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, serving Dutchess, Ulster, and Putnam counties.

“Our Garden Party honorees highlight the community service and dedication from both banks of the Hudson River,” said Rebecca Blahut, Event Chair.  “These community-minded couples share their dedication to our area and epitomize the work of the Community Foundation: to make our region an even better place to live and work.  We were so pleased to provide the community with an opportunity to show their appreciation to these amazing people.”

“We are gratified that so many people turned out for our Garden Party this year,” said Andrea Reynolds, President and CEO of the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley. “It demonstrates enthusiastic support for our wonderful honorees and the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley’s important work in our region.”

Honorary Co-Chairs for the event were last year’s Honorees: Daniel and Nancy Aronzon and Tildy and William Davenport. Event Chair was Rebecca Blahut. Platinum Sponsors were: HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley and Health Quest. Gold Sponsors were: Alpha Apple, Bruderhof Communities, Catskill Hudson Bank, Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation, Key Bank, M&T Bank, Marshall & Sterling Insurance, McCabe & Mack LLP, James J. McCann Charitable Trust & McCann Foundation Inc., Rhinebeck Savings Bank and Riverside Bank.

For over 40 years the Community Foundation has been a driving force of affordable philanthropy in the Hudson Valley region. Serving all of Dutchess, Ulster and Putnam counties and representing thousands of donors through more than 530 separate funds, the Foundation channels much needed support to the community through grants and scholarships. The Foundation’s purpose is to be your first resource for everything charitable; connecting people who care with causes that matter.

For information about charitable giving through the Community Foundation, grant programs, or to obtain a copy of the organization’s Annual Report, please call the Foundation at 845-452-3077 or contact us online.