WESTFIELD — An “electric fun night” celebrating cancer survivors and warriors is once again being planned in the city by organizers of Western Mass. Mom Prom.
Women working behind the scenes — Tammy Glynn, April Lassard, Eva Dion and Stephanie Shaw — have set an ambitious goal to raise $30,000 to benefit two charities, the Cancer House of Hope in West Springfield, and the regional American Cancer Society, based in Framingham and East Hartford, Conn.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the last Western Mass Mom Prom was conducted in 2019. Pictured at that event, left to right, April Lassard, Tammy Glynn, and Dina McMahon from WMAS-FM who served as master of ceremonies. (WESTERN MASS MOM PROM PHOTO)
“Everyone is touched by cancer in some way and our organization gives a little something back to the individuals affected directly by cancer,” said Glynn.
The seventh annual ladies-only prom — with a “Grease” theme — is slated April 2 from 6 p.m. to midnight at the Tekoa Country Club at 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Tickets are $80 and includes dinner and dessert, disc jockey to dance the night away, photo booth, signature cocktail, access to raffles and more.
“Prom-like attire from all eras is the general attire, but we believe our guests should wear what makes them smile,” said Glynn.
What makes this fundraiser extra special is the group’s commitment to increasing the number of cancer survivors who attend the event for free.
“For 2022, we hope to get 50 survivors nominated to get our Pink Pass,” said Glynn, noting the Pink Pass entitles the nominee to a free ticket to the event, free gown, hair and makeup services at the venue on the night of the event, special raffle prizes, and a swag bag of items just for survivors.
Glynn said that many of the attendees are women who received a Pink Pass at a previous Mom Prom and then return with friends and family for “another great night.”
“Survivors are not identified as such unless they want to be,” said Glynn. “We understand that many women are not comfortable being identified as a survivor or warrior.”
The committee members are hopeful that more individuals and large businesses will consider making a donation.
“The small businesses that have been our mainstay have really been hit hard by COVID-19,” said Glynn. “We also receive donations through employee matching with Benevity. Individuals can check with their employer to see if they will match individual donations. We are a nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization based in Westfield.”
A “Grease” theme is planned for the spring Western Mass. Mom Prom at Tekoa Country Club in Westfield.
A sponsorship can range from $80 to sponsor a survivor for the event up to $1,000 for a Pink Diamond sponsorship and a table of eight with recognition on varied marketing materials.
“We believe that Western Mass. Mom Prom is the perfect way for our community to support those in the battle of a lifetime against cancer,” said Glynn. “Through our annual event and all the fundraising that takes place throughout the year, Mom Prom can benefit all individuals in our community affected by cancer in some way.”
Glynn stressed that the 2022 chosen charities serve all individuals with all types of cancer and there are no fees for the services.
Glynn added that committee members are always seeking volunteers to join the cause.
“We all share in the work and allow volunteers to let their strengths shine,” said Glynn. “We all come from very different backgrounds and professions, so we have different skills and contacts.”
Community involvement is also an important aspect of the fundraiser and Glynn said she is “very excited” to have Sunshine Village working on the centerpieces and decorations for the evening.
“They are some of the most creative individuals to work with,” said Glynn, adding, “Lisa Montero has been very helpful and creative in providing decorations for our event.”
Glynn also acknowledged disc jockey Kristin Huber from Cristal Productions, who will keep everyone on the dance floor with songs from the 1950s to today.
For more information on the Western Mass. Mom Prom — from purchasing tickets to sponsorships, as well as nominating a cancer survivor or warrior — visit www.westernmassmomprom.com or call 413-265-0718 or 413-427-3872.
Glynn added that the Big Y at 475 E. Main St., Westfield, will donate $1 for every $2.50 reusable Community Bag purchased in October to Western Mass. Mom Prom in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“This is such a powerful way to give back to a worthy cause as part of your regular shopping routine,” said Glynn. “Nonprofits at the local level, like us, are in need of community support. This program offers the perfect opportunity to support the environment, give back locally, and raise awareness during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.”
As part of this ongoing program, every month at every Big Y location a different local nonprofit is selected to benefit from the sale of the reusable Community Bag.
