9th Annual Castles in the Sand Raises Funds for Homes With Hope

A near perfect day at Compo Beach was the ideal setting for the 9th Annual Castles in the Sand on Saturday.   The event, one of about four yearly fundraisers for Homes with Hope, has collected between $10,000 and $20,000 in years past and hopes to do as well this year.  Homes with Hope, founded in 1984 under the name of Interfaith Housing Association of Westport and Weston,  is a grassroots, community response to helping  the homeless.  

"The Westport/Weston Community is extremely supportive," says Jeff Wieser, CEO and President of Homes with Hope. "The organization receives a  large portion of their yearly operating expenses from generous donations made by local businesses and individuals."

This year's event had about 35 sand-sculpting artists who looked as if they were enjoying the sand and sun as much as the competition.  The competition had both individual and team entries, including a few local teams from Westport business owners. Winners in several categories, including Most Ambitious and People's choice, were awarded a Golden Shovel. 

There were also many generous sponsors for the Sand Castle event including Gault, Babkie Graphi and Web Design, the Eipstein Family, Kowalski Bros., the Walsh Family, the Charles Chase Group, Brooks Community Newspapers, David Adam Realty, WSTCWNLC Radio and Joey's by the Sea.

If you were unable to participate in this year's Castles in the Sand, don't worry, it will be back again next year.

"It is a feel good event and a great outreach program for the community," Wieser said. "And, it is one of the best days of the year in Westport.  There is nothing better than building sandcastles on the beach on a warm, sunny day."

For more information on Homes with Hope, click here.