Q&A: Talking Alternatives for Youth, Upcoming Fundraiser and Town Hall Renovation with Outback

When NewCanaanite.com heard from Outback about the organization’s May 20 fundraiser—it’s two related events, the Red Geranium Boutique (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Ladies Night Out (6 to 8:30 p.m.)—we saw a great opportunity to connect with the nonprofit and review a number of newsy items, as well as get more information on the fundraiser itself. Advocates for Outback—which does know how to put on a good event—during this budget season just past, pushed to restore funding for the downtown center in the face of what they called serious drinking problems among New Canaan youth. The facility itself sits directly back of Town Hall, which is undergoing a widely anticipated renovation. Sangeeta Appel, president of Outback’s Board of Directors, provided us with some great information about how the organization sees its role in New Canaan, including a four-pronged approach to youth services that places Outback in a strong, complementary position to local agencies focused on education and prevention. We also got some good details about the Boutique’s numerous vendors—who they are and what they offer—and touched on the familiar matter of parking in downtown New Canaan amid some large construction projects (Appel is quick to praise the town’s Department of Public Works for its communication and diligence.)

A sincere “Thank You” to Appel for your considered and frank responses.