WESTFIELD-As a youngster enjoying the many offerings at the YMCA of Greater Westfield, every day was an adventure for Andrea Allard – especially during the summer.
“I always went to Camp Shepard,” said Allard during an interview in her office last week.
Now, as the YMCA’s CEO, Allard relishes the time she has to spend with all of the members, the volunteers and her staff.
“I have the best job in the world,” she said.
Allard wants to ensure that every child in the Greater Westfield area also has the opportunities she once had, so along with a team of volunteers, she is putting the finishing touches on a major fundraiser slated June 4 titled “The Second City: Comedy for a Cause.”
Her team of volunteers working on the fundraiser – from YMCA members to board members – includes Amy L’Esperance, Lisa Sullivan, Melissa Lambert, Eric Hall, Holly Amanti, Bill Cloutier, Kaitlyn Bruce, Kelly Salls and Emily Amanti.
Andrea Allard, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Westfield, encourages area residents to attend a unique fundraiser June 4.
Chicago’s legendary comedy theater comes to Westfield in an irresistible hour of improvise comedy, according to Allard. The Second City is celebrating 55 years of producing cutting edge satirical revues and has launched the careers of Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell, Gilda Radner and Bill Murray.
The Second City actors scheduled to perform include Jo Feldman, Emily Fightmaster, Jeffrey Murdoch, Scotty Nelson, Chucho Perez, and Julia Weiss, accompanied by Lauren M. Batson, stage manager, Mary Mahoney, music director, and Ryan Archibald, director.
“This is our fourth large-scale show,” said Allard. “We bring Las Vegas quality shows to Westfield.”
The event begins at 6 p.m. at Tim and Jeanne’s Dining Common on the campus of Westfield State University. Parking is available adjacent to the dining common, Parenzo Hall and Scanlon Hall. Comedy Club casual attire is suggested.
The evening begins with a cocktail party and “fabulous” dinner stations that will feature carving stations, a pasta station, and dessert bar. Live and silent auctions are also planned as part of the evening’s festivities.
“Our goal is to raise $35,000 from this event,” said Allard.
Tickets are $75 per person which includes dinner and the show. A portion of the ticket is tax-deductible. Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.westfieldymca.org or by calling (413) 568-8631. The deadline to purchase tickets is May 26.
Gold sponsors of this premier event include Advance Manufacturing Company, Inc., Westfield Bank, and Westfield State University. Sponsorship levels are still available, as well as advertisements in the program book. The deadline to lock in a sponsorship level is May 13 by calling the YMCA for more details. Sponsorship levels range from platinum for $10,000, gold for $5,000, silver for $2,500, and bronze for $1,500.
Proceeds raised from this event benefit the overall programming of the YMCA, and in particular, a new program that is wrapping up a pilot session this month.
“Livestrong at the YMCA is a free, 12-week exercise program for cancer survivors who are currently in or have completed treatment and are physically deconditioned,” said Allard. “The program offers a place where one can feel alive again.”
Additionally, proceeds raised from fundraisers throughout the year benefit the YMCA’s financial assistance program.
“Last year the YMCA served close to 6,000 families, adults and children,” said Allard. “Through our financial assistance program we helped over 900 families and children and provided over $200,000 in scholarships.”
Since 1888, the YMCA has been providing a supportive environment for children, adults and families, with positive role models and a values-rich atmosphere, according to Allard.
“We’re part of the fabric of the community,” she said. “Funds raised from this event will continue to support our signature YMCA programs that are specifically designed to develop the whole person in spirit, mind and body.”
