West Suburban YMCA's Totally '80s Annual Gala Raises $120,000
The West Suburban YMCA’s Totally ‘80s Annual Gala was a spectacular success, drawing over 250 community members and raising more than $120,000 for the Y’s annual fund. This memorable evening celebrated community spirit, nostalgia, and generosity. View Facebook album, here. View Digibooth gallery, here.
A major highlight of the evening was the moving Fund-a-Need program, where speakers shared personal stories about the impact of the Y’s programs. Dorothy, a LiveStrong at the YMCA participant, spoke passionately about the program’s role in helping cancer survivors rebuild their strength in body, mind, and spirit. Teens Angie and Josue also shared how grateful they are for the Y’s supportive environment, while Jessica Grillo from Recovery Team Newton highlighted the importance of charitable partnerships with the Y in supporting community wellness and recovery.
The event itself transported attendees back to the 1980s, complete with a DeLorean car—like the one from Back to the Future—where guests could take photos. Patriots Game Day host and WEEI-FM personality Nick Stevens emceed the evening, and attendees made Boomerang videos, GIFs, and photos at the popular Digibooth station, showing off their best retro poses. Adding to the nostalgic fun, caricature artists Ash Jackson and Andrew Richardson created one-of-a-kind portraits for guests.
The night included a sit-down dinner catered by Baker’s Best, specialty cocktails, classic arcade games, and a lively raffle and auction with sought-after prizes. Music from The Passive Aggressives kept guests on the dance floor, bringing ‘80s hits to life.
“The turnout and generosity at this year’s gala were extraordinary,” said Jack Fucci, President and CEO of the West Suburban YMCA. “The success of this event will make a significant difference in our ability to provide programs and services that break down barriers to participation, empowering individuals of all ages and backgrounds in our community. We are grateful to everyone who attended, donated, and supported this event.”
The Y expresses deep gratitude to its sponsors: Gold Sponsors Bob & Laurette Bachman and Calare Properties, Inc.; Silver Sponsors Boston College, Dedham Savings, Lee & Gloria Gavris, M&T Bank, Ned & Gretchen Morse, and The Village Bank; and Bronze Sponsors Archive, Commodore Builders, Dwell360 Real Estate, Eastern Bank, Honda Village, Schlesinger and Buchbinder, LLP, The Gluck Family, and The RMR Group. Special thanks also go to Rivermoor Energy, the Take Home Gift Sponsor, and Dion's, the Wine Sponsor.
With the gala’s success, the Y is excited to continue supporting the Newton community in meaningful ways. For more information about the Y’s programs or to get donate, visit wsymca.org/donate or contact Sara Pollock DeMedeiros at 617-244-6050.
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