Hunt Hill Farm Celebrates a Landmark Ruth & Skitch Henderson Day 2025
Oct 06, 2025
Hunt Hill Farm once again became a beacon of culture, community, and global partnership on Saturday, October 4th, 2025, with the resounding success of the 4th annual Ruth & Skitch Henderson Day. The event celebrated the enduring legacy of its founders and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations while forging new pathways toward a sustainable and equitable future. Esteemed guests, community leaders, and global innovators gathered to honor the past and inspire the future.
A Confluence of Legacy and Vision
The evening began with a warm welcome from Alessandro Piovezahn, President of Hunt Hill Farm Trust Inc. He set an inspiring tone for the event, connecting the Henderson’s' legacy of community building with the pressing global challenges of our time. Mr. Piovezahn highlighted the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, emphasizing the critical importance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through collaboration and innovation. He proudly introduced the LivelyUp Youth Engagement Network to be officially launched in 2026, a groundbreaking global initiative developed in partnership with WALO AI to empower the next generation of leaders.
The guest of honor, Mr. Wook-Jin Chang, Head of the UN-DESA NGO Session, delivered a powerful address. Introduced by the distinguished Dr. Hanifa Mezoui of AICESIS, Mr. Chang spoke eloquently about the UN's 80th anniversary, the urgent need for multilateral collaboration to achieve the SDGs, and the vital role of civil society in driving progress.
Forging Partnerships for a Better World
The spirit of collaboration, a core tenet of SDG 17, was a central theme of the day. The event showcased several transformative partnerships that position Hunt Hill Farm at the forefront of innovation and social impact.
Vitor Lozetti of WALO Generative AI Development shared exciting details about the LivelyUp Youth Engagement Platform, a project developed in partnership with Hunt Hill Farm and world soccer icon Ronaldinho Gaúcho. This platform aims to connect and empower young leaders across the globe. Adding to the global perspective, Mr. Brett Josohn from the Altru Institute and DAVOS Consortium echoed the importance of multilateral collaboration in his remarks, reinforcing the collective responsibility to support the UN's mission.
A major announcement came from Mr. Maykel Rieth, CEO of MAFF Energy. He revealed a pioneering partnership with Hunt Hill Farm to install the revolutionary Thruster fuel-efficiency device. This technology, capable of reducing fossil fuel consumption in heavy machinery and vehicles by up to 40%, will make Hunt Hill Farm the first NGO in the USA to test its impact. This collaboration marks a significant step in the farm's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Further strengthening this network of purpose, Tom Chernaik, representing the new partner NGO SAGAPO, shared his organization's vision to help Hunt Hill Farm realize its full potential as a center for healing, conservation, and youth empowerment.
Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
The focus on youth leadership was brought to life through compelling speeches from those dedicated to mentoring the change-makers of tomorrow. Mr. Bobby Payne, President and founder of the AGORA NGO, spoke about his organization's mission to develop critical leadership skills in young people.
His words were powerfully illustrated by Hunt Hill Farm's own Youth Ambassador, Allison Danial. A participant in the AGORA program, Allison delivered a beautiful and heartfelt speech on the importance of providing opportunities for youth to thrive and contribute to achieving the SDGs. Her poised and passionate address was a highlight of the day, embodying the very spirit of the LivelyUp network.
A Global Partnership to Empower Youth Through Sports
We're also honored to spotlight Marina Monterosso, representing CUFA GLOBAL—the world’s largest youth social entrepreneurship NGO. In partnership with CUFA GLOBAL, Hunt Hill Farm has proudly served as the representative for CUFA USA, bringing transformative opportunities to our local youth. This collaboration saw the realization of the very first Taça das Favelas USA, an inspiring soccer tournament held on September 6–7 and 13–14, 2025, at Randall's Island in New York City. The event united 220 teenagers across 22 thrilling games, with teams from the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island.
"By joining forces, we’re expanding the spirit of empowerment and inclusion that defines both CUFA and Hunt Hill Farm—giving young people a real chance to shine, grow, and create lasting friendships on and off the field." Said Marina Monterosso.
A Community Celebration with Mayoral Recognition
The deep connection between the Henderson’s and their community was honored by New Milford Mayor Pete Bass. He spoke of Ruth and Skitch's immense contributions to the town and the region, reinforcing their cultural and historical importance. Mayor Bass concluded his remarks with an official proclamation, declaring October 7th as the official Ruth & Skitch Henderson Day in the Town of New Milford, cementing their legacy for generations to come.
An Afternoon of Unforgettable Music
True to the Henderson’s' love for the arts, the event featured breathtaking musical performances produced by Hunt Hill Farm's Goodwill Ambassador, Kim Scharnberg. The audience was graced by the return of Grammy Award-winning duo Krystyana and James Czeiner, who have a long and cherished history with the farm. Their performance was a moving tribute to their friendship with the Hendersons.
The program also featured the incredible talent of Alexander Vivero, a world-class piano virtuoso from Mexico who first performed at the event in 2022 at just 13 years old. His return was a testament to the farm's commitment to nurturing young talent. They were joined by up-and-coming guitarist and songwriter Jake Wildhorn, who captivated the audience with his fresh sound.
A Taste of The Silo's Hospitality
The celebration culminated in a lively cocktail hour at the iconic Silo Gallery. Guests mingled with artists and speakers while enjoying an amazing grazing board of delicious foods masterfully prepared by the Director of The Silo Cooking School and owner of the award winning Greca Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar, Chef Dino Kolitsas. The culinary delights were perfectly complemented by exquisite sweets from The Silo's master baker, Nijole Potts.
The Ruth & Skitch Henderson Day 2025 was more than just an event; it was a powerful demonstration of what is possible when community, culture, and a commitment to global good come together. It was a day that the Hendersons would have been truly proud of.
