WESTFIELD-For area residents who remember the funky and totally awesome 1980s, an evening to celebrate the decade is planned as a fundraiser for the YMCA of Greater Westfield on June 1.
Billed as a “Totally 80’s Party,” the event committee prefers to keep most of the details of the “premier party” under wraps to ensure delightful surprises for attendees.
“Funds raised from this event will support the important work of the YMCA and the programs it provides to our community,” said Andrea Allard, CEO, YMCA, adding, “These signature YMCA programs are specifically designed to develop the whole person in spirit, mind and body.”
The seventh annual premier event begins at 6 p.m. and will be conducted on the campus of Westfield State University with a menu of “delicious choices” provided by Westfield State Dining Services.
“They never disappoint,” said Allard.
Allard said the committee has set a goal of raising $45,000.
“Last year’s event – ZBTB – was a smashing success,” said Allard, noting that close to 275 area residents attended the party. “Over $43,000 was raised and all who attended had rave reviews. This year will prove to also be fun and entertaining.”
While a silent auction and live auction will be highlights of the evening affair, what everyone will be talking about is the entertainment, also under wraps at press time.
“The entertainment will feature one of New York City’s biggest 1980s tribute bands,” said Allard, noting that the family friendly, five-piece band will perform the most authentic, note-for-note renditions of the chart topping pop, new wave, and rock hits of the decade.
“We put the fun in fundraiser and all who attend will have a great time,” said Allard. “At the same time with their generosity and support, thousands of kids, families and individuals will participate in YMCA programs that improve their health, enrich their lives, and help them cope with life challenges that can seem overwhelming.”
Allard is being assisted by a dedicated group of committee members working behind the scenes on logistics including Holly Amanti, Christina Lovelace, Eric Hall, Kelly Salls, Lisa Sullivan and Bill Cloutier.
Allard noted that funding helps support early childhood education, before and after school care, summer camp, youth sports, health and wellness activities for members of all ages, swim lessons, teen leadership programs, and “very successful” competitive gymnastics and swim teams.
“Our programs are designed to meet the needs of all members of our community, all ages, ability and income levels,” said Allard, adding, “proceeds from this fundraising event will underwrite portions of these programs to ensure that they are accessible and affordable to all members of our community.”
Tickets are priced at $75 per person for the dinner and show and can be purchased at the YMCA on Court Street, online at www.westfieldymca.org, or by calling (413) 568-8631.
Allard also gave special thanks to sponsors including Advance Manufacturing Co., Inc., Westfield Bank, Air Compressor Engineering, Co., HUB International New England, Roger Butler Insurance Agency, Inc., Baystate Noble Hospital, Mestek, Inc., Westfield Electroplating Company, and Westfield Gas and Electric.
For area residents who remember – and embrace – the lingo, big hair and fashion of the 1980s – from those who were “bad to the bone,” “preppy,” “rad,” or “grody,” this premier party is one way to jump start your “party hardy” summer season.
“We encourage attendees to dress in their ’80s best,” said Allard. “If not, casual attire is the dress code. It is a great way to kick off the summer and support a great cause.”
