The community came out to support a local organization that has helped thousands of people for nine decades.

Everyone in Stratford and the greater Bridgeport area knows about the Sterling Community Center. It has gone above and beyond to benefit others. Now the community is giving back.

"Sterling Community Center is an incredible organization housed in a Victorian mansion in Stratford," said Sterling Community Center Executive Director Amanda Meeson. Sterling Community Center says it is guided by values of welcoming all, leading with compassion and dignity, and embracing the diversity of the community.

Thursday, the center held its 20th annual celebrity breakfast at the Trumbull Marriott.

"Today what we're fundraising for is 2,500 youth athletes all over town. A really robust food pantry and social services support. We have preschool, after school, summer camp, yoga, pickleball, bingo. All good things," said Meeson. Radio and TV personality Christopher "Mad Dog" Russo was the guest speaker. "They do a tremendous job. Great community. 90 years. And anything I can help especially in Connecticut since I live in the New Canaan area is always good for me too," said Russo. The event honored Bill O'Brien, known as Mr. Bill to everyone who knows him. He has worked with Sterling House for the last four decades. "He is just so loved and celebrated still to this day," said Meeson. The money raised here will do so much. "A portion of what we're fundraising today is our financial aid to insure that no child, especially a youth athlete is left behind based on a financial limitation," said Meeson.

The Sterling Community Center hopes to raise $25,000 from the event to be able to continue the great programs they have to offer.