By Marisa Dawson
The Bennington Community Foundation’s signature Blue Jeans & Blazers event last night at The Barn returned bigger and brighter than ever, filling the venue with laughter, generous bids and that unmistakable small-town spirit. Denim met blazers as friends, neighbors and newcomers gathered for a cocktail hour downstairs before heading upstairs for dinner, awards, live auction excitement and dancing into the night with a live band. Foundation Board President Tim Clark called it exactly what it’s always been: “a way to bring the community together and raise funds so we can invest back into our great community.”
This year marked a milestone— the Foundation is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Clark, whose father started the organization, beamed with pride at its continued growth. “It’s grown over the years and there’s always new faces here, which is fantastic to see with the growing community,” he said. Guests raised paddles to bid for everything from a lake vacation getaway and premium sports packages to a sponsorship tree at Neumeyer Farm Park and gorgeous floral arrangements from local florist Flora & Fern. Special fundraising pushes also supported three local causes: the new nonprofit Bennington Buzz newsroom, the Dave Clark Memorial Scholarship, and a new welcome sign on the north side of town.
The evening’s emotional high point came when two extraordinary volunteers stepped into the spotlight. William (Bill) Cunard was named 2025 Volunteer of the Year for his tireless work with the Bennington Historical Society, Flower Posse, Tree Board and youth programs—tending more than 90 varieties of historic Sass Iris and keeping downtown blooming. Accepting the honor, Bill shared a simple truth: “If you can’t give with your checkbook, give with your hands, your time.”
Lifetime Achievement honors went to Leola Bonge, a community pillar for over 60 years. From multiple terms as president of the GFWC Bennington Woman’s Club to 12 years on the Village Board, 18 years directing the public library and countless church and civic roles, Leola’s fingerprints are on nearly every chapter of modern Bennington. She reminded everyone why she’s poured her heart into this town: “You only get out of the community what you put into it.” Her advice to the room? “Get out there and volunteer. You won’t regret it.”
As the band kicked in and the dance floor filled, one thing was clear—Bennington remains a really great community because people like Bill, Leola, the BCF board and all of you keep showing up, giving back and celebrating together. Here’s to 20 more years of growing stronger, together! 
Thank you to everyone who donated to the wonderful causes at the event last night, especially if you donated to the Bennington Buzz! As a nonprofit, we are able to keep the news free to our readers through generous donations and sponsorships from our community. Tax-deductible donations can be made to us through the Bennington Community Foundation at this link: Donate here: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/N932N4CVG5D7U
Check out a few shots from the event below!
*Photos by Marisa Dawson
