The Catherine Violet Hubbard (CVH) Animal Sanctuary commemorates 6-year-old Catherine, an animal and nature lover who sadly lost her life in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on December 11, 2012. During this senseless tragedy, 26 lives were taken. The 34-acre sanctuary memorializes Catherine while acting as a peaceful refuge dedicated to protecting animals, insects, and nature.
Come visit the CVH Sanctuary on Saturday, June 6, from 12 - 4 p.m. for their Butterfly Party and celebrate Catherine’s 19th birthday. It's free, family-friendly, and interactive. Perhaps you can even adopt a pet from one of the many dog and cat rescues, including Because 4 Paws, where I have volunteered for many years.
Their mission states, “The Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary enriches the lives of all beings by promoting compassion and acceptance. By honoring the bond between animals, humans, and the environment, we’re creating a kinder and gentler world for all.”
There are always community-based events, whether it's goat yoga or finding creatures in the muck. It's a peaceful place to go for a walk with dogs, sit and relax, explore the creek, and take your mind off things. They work with dog rescues and are always ready to welcome new helpers.
When I was four years old, I started volunteering and became interested in their mission. The sanctuary has given me so many great memories and has taught me about the importance of the environment. Each year, CVH Sanctuary hosts a butterfly party the first weekend in June to celebrate Catherine’s birthday. It is a beautiful day that brings together all things important to Catherine. The first year, it was small with only a hundred visitors. Ten years later, they are expecting over 12,000 people to celebrate on June 6, 2026, according to Catherine’s mom and founder Jennifer Hubbard.
Early on, she became a mentor for me. Jenny is remarkable and turned tragedy into triumph through Catherine’s passions and memories. She has helped not only the environment but also so many people and animals. Jenny and I have collaborated closely together, and we were even interviewed on the local news together.
In 2020, my mom was diagnosed with cancer, which was scary and confusing for me. During this time, I spent more time at the sanctuary, which kept me very busy and my mind off things. Even now, I still go there, whether it's for a bike ride or a walk. The sanctuary has provided a place for me to heal through the beauty of nature, community, and good people.
I hope to see you at 3 Primrose St, Newtown, CT, at the Fairfield Hills Campus.
Jayden '28
Journalism Student
