DARIEN, CT — The Community Fund of Darien raised more than $75,000 for local nonprofit grants during its 46th annual Darien Road Race and Family Fun Day on Sunday, Sept. 20.
More than 250 runners, walkers, volunteers and community supporters attended the morning event, which supported the organization's 2026–2027 grant pool for nonprofits serving neighbors in need.
Participants of all ages and abilities took part in a 1.5-mile run/walk or a 5-mile race along Darien's coastline, beginning and ending at Pear Tree Point Beach. Participants ranged in age from a few months to 77 years old.
Runners seeking personal bests ran alongside families with strollers and groups of friends walking the course.
Tommy Ross finished first among male runners in the 5-mile race, followed by Sam Jackson in second and William Kim in third. Kathleen Servidea finished first among female runners, followed by Kristin Ryan in second and Courtney O'Connor in third.
Gary Rivera finished first in the 1.5-mile run/walk, followed by Mason Wang in second, Beatrice Colelli in third, Brooke Stuckey in fourth and Jennifer Martin in fifth.
A beachside family fun tent offered a photo booth, face painting, caricatures, games, a DJ and a prize booth, among other activities.
"The rain honestly made the day even more memorable," said The Community Fund of Darien Executive Director Maggie Domont in a news release. "To see hundreds of people come out, embrace the weather, and have so much fun while supporting our neighbors was incredibly inspiring. There was such a strong sense of community throughout the morning, and we are so grateful to everyone who was part of it."
The money raised through participants, sponsors and donors will support more than 35 local nonprofits providing food, housing, physical and mental health care, youth programs, employment training and emergency services to people in Stamford, Norwalk and Darien.
The Community Fund awarded $737,800 in grants to 37 local nonprofits in July. Race proceeds, along with additional contributions made through June 30, 2027, will determine the number and size of grants awarded next year.
The organization's Youth Community Fund program for students in grades 10–12 hosted a silent auction featuring items donated by local businesses and individuals.
The auction raised more than $4,000 for the youth program's grant pool, which will be distributed to local nonprofits at the end of the yearlong program.
Since 1951, The Community Fund of Darien says it has granted nearly $30 million to local nonprofits supporting basic needs in Stamford, Norwalk and Darien. Its grants support nonprofit health and human services organizations in four areas: basic needs, community health, workforce development and youth success.
Each nonprofit receiving funding is vetted by the organization's Grant Review Committee and trained volunteers, who review how donor contributions are allocated to make the greatest local impact.
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