The Haberstroh family has long set the gold standard for civic involvement in Westport.
Charlie and his wife Patty were involved in a long list of activities, from politics (Board of Finance, RTM, Board of Selectmen, Parks & Recreation Commission) and sports (you name it), to social welfare (Department of Human Services).
Their children continue the tradition, without missing a beat.
Patty Haberstroh
When Patty — a beloved and long-time Human Services family coordinator — was diagnosed with ALS, the Haberstrohs added their prodigious energy to education, advocacy and fundraising around the debilitating and deadly disease.
They started the Pepper Challenge — which raised over $1 million. They convinced Major League Baseball to initiate an annual Lou Gehrig Day.
Tom Haberstroh created Hoops4ALS. The movement has united baskeetball players, coaches and fans around the country.
Two years after Patty’s death, they’ve added a new venture: golf.
On June 17th, brothers Chuck and Steve — a former Staples High School All-State golfer — played 100 holes in Hartford, to raise funds to fight ALS.
No big deal? That was 100 holes in one day.
The group of 24 — including ESPN NFL analyst and Westport resident Dan Orlovsky — teed off at 5 a.m. They finished nearly 16 hours later, at 8:45 p.m.
Dan Orlovsky, midway through the long but rewarding day.
They did it all in pouring rain — all day long.
That was challenging, Chuck says. But, he notes, “it was nothing compared to what our mom dealt with battling ALS.”
The long, emotional day brought in over $450,000.
Funds go to 3 charities. ALS TDI is laser-focused on finding cures and treatment for the disease. Team Gleason is a leader in developing and sharing technology for people living with ALS.
Experience Camps — based here in Westport – is a national program offering year-round programs for children whose parents or caregivers have died.
Chuck and Steve Haberstroh, with a sign honoring their mother at Keney Park.
“We ain’t stopping!” promises Chuck.
In fact, he adds, contributions are still coming in. To donate to the Haberstrohs’ (and Orlovsky’s) team, click here.
Chuck and Steve, Wonderful event for Patty and ALS. Bravo, keep up the great work. Baxter