September 3, 2021-- Hartford, CT: The Hartford Rib Off, a nonprofit organization committed to raising funds and supporting local charities through safe and enjoyable BBQ-themed events, has announced that the 11th Hartford Rib Off event, planned for October 15-16, 2021, is officially postponed until further notice due to the rise of COVID-19 cases throughout the state.
“In keeping with our commitment to the health and safety of our community, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the postponement of the 2021 Hartford Rib Off,” says Guy Neumann, Hartford Rib Off Founder. “This fundraising event centers around family fun, entertainment, food, and drink, and we feel that the rise in COVID-19 cases throughout the state makes our decision to postpone unavoidable. Due to the commonly accepted COVID protocols necessary at this time, and the uncertainty of future guidelines, we find that we are unable to manage the 2021 event from both logistical and financial standpoints. Additionally, one of our main beneficiaries this year, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, supports children with significant underlying health issues. This, coupled with the fact that children under the age of 12 aren’t eligible for vaccination, makes maintaining the family-friendly atmosphere of The Hartford Rib Off untenable. The risks are just too high, and the continued health and safety of everyone involved with The Hartford Rib Off is our top priority.”
The Hartford Rib Off prides itself on promoting The City of Hartford and raising funds for charitable organizations which directly give back to underserved communities. Over the last 11 years The Hartford Rib Off has proudly donated more than $180,000.00 to 7 local charitable organizations and has awarded $10,000.00 to deserving Hartford students heading to college.
“We truly appreciate the help and support we have received from our sponsors, our board of directors, the cook teams, and our many volunteers, all of whom have given so much of their time, energy, talents and donations, to help try to keep this event up and running. We hope to bring back The Hartford Rib Off in person in 2022 so that we may continue our commitment to raising awareness and funding to support the various objectives of Greater Hartford area nonprofit organizations. We will continue to seek out opportunities to safely support our partners and beneficiaries throughout the remainder of 2021, all while hoping to bring The Hartford Rib Off event back in 2022.”