Max Maggard, Reporter
On March 25, 2023 at Waveny Park, New Canaan witnessed a spectacular sight as a sleek Bell407 helicopter, courtesy of HeliNY, hovered overhead, safely releasing 2,000 colored golf balls over a designated target. This event, known as the New Canaan Color Drop, has become an annual fundraising tradition, attracting hundreds of residents who gather to support the New Canaan Scholarship Foundation (NCSF) in providing need-based scholarships to NCHS students and graduates.
The excitement in the air was visible as spectators watched, eager to see which numbered golf balls would land closest to the target. Lucky winners received an array of fantastic prizes, including a Momentum Transend Electric Bike, a Pet Portrait by Emma Sims, a season pass to the Steve Benko Pool at Waveny Park and an 84 Sports gift basket. The anticipation grew as the winning balls were announced, knowing that 100% of the proceeds would be donated to the NCSF to help deserving students.
According to Principal Egan, the fundraiser was a success. “We sold all 2,000 golf balls and raised about $50,000 from that alone, not to mention the plenty of sponsors who contributed. That also helps with our scholarship that we give out.” Mr. Egan said.
The scholarships provided by NCSF vary in number each year “It could be about fifty kids who receive money. Ultimately, we give away about $130,000 to $250,000 per year,” Principal Egan said. To qualify for a scholarship, the primary criterion is financial need, ensuring that assistance goes to students and families who truly require support for college education.
The New Canaan community’s involvement in this fundraiser is very important. “There are kids who want to go to college. Sometimes in this community, we look around and see successful people who are doing really well, which is great.” Said Mr. Egan. “But there are some who struggle and really need assistance. Kids who work really hard and might need an opportunity to go to the college of their choice can get some help to do that, and it’s really important. It’s one of the most wonderful things someone can do – contribute to help the life of somebody else who, you never know, could turn it around for them.”
“It’s such a worthy cause, because we have an opportunity to help our own peers, some of whom we don’t even know who they are, which is great, to have the opportunity to get to college and pursue their dreams. To me, there’s no more noble thing than that to be able to help somebody amongst us get ahead, and that’s awesome.” Mr. Egan said.
