Community gathers to support nonprofit

ANDOVER — The community recently gathered on the grounds of the Hudson Farm Club, a 3,800-acre hunting preserve in Andover, to participate in a clay shoot, enjoy a gourmet meal and raise funds for Project Self-Sufficiency, a nonprofit agency specializing in services for low-income families.

Participants of all skill levels were invited to shoot at an assortment of over 100 clay targets at 20 different locations throughout the sprawling grounds. The day was capped with a five-course, gourmet dinner prepared by chefs Kirk Avondoglio, Bradley Boyle, Andre de Waal, and Tim Harder.

The Harvest Shoot and Taste of Autumn Gourmet Gathering is one of the cornerstone events of Project Self-Sufficiency’s annual campaign, said Executive Director Deborah Berry-Toon.

“Given the tenuous state of our economy, the services provided to low-income families by Project Self-Sufficiency are more important than ever. Raising funds necessary to operate these programs is crucial to our success," Berry-Toon said. 'We are extremely grateful to the four chefs who have shared their time and talent with all of us, and we offer special thanks to the Hudson Farm Club for hosting this event year after year.”

Patrons at the Harvest Shoot and Taste of Autumn Gourmet Gathering had the option of participating in the all-day event or just the dinner. A special shooting clinic was recently added to the beginning of the course so that novices could learn to safely use a hunting rifle. Afterwards, participants gathered in the club’s dining room for the evening meal, which included hors d’oeuvres, salad and soup, fish, meat, and dessert.

Sponsors of the event included The Hudson Farm Club; Beverly and Bruce Gordon; J.P. Perry, Henry O. Baker Insurance Group; Hilary Kruce and Vincent Signorile; Legacy Studios/Esposito Associates; Gregory and Susan Murphy; Rhoda and Norman Seider; Selective Insurance Company of America; John Ursin, Schenck, Price, Price, Smith and King, LLP. Sponsors of individual stations included Eastern Propane and the Nicholson Family; Exceptional Risk Advisors, LLC; George’s Salvage Company; R.G. and B.W. Huber; Nisivoccia, LLC; Shop Rite/Ronetco Supermarkets; Dr. Richard Vaz; and Zitone Construction and Supply. Wine bar sponsored by Beverly and Bruce Gordon.

All proceeds from the Harvest Shoot and Taste of Autumn Gourmet Gathering benefit Project Self-Sufficiency.

For more information call 973-940-3500 or visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org.