‘Open House’ fundraiser supports Boys and Girls Club programs

Date: 2/20/2015

WEST SPRINGFIELD – The West Springfield Boys and Girls Club will be welcoming the public for its second annual “Open House” fundraiser on March 7. The event will include a live auction, beer and wine tastings and raffles.

According to John O’Farrell, director of development for the West Springfield Boys and Girls Club, the money raise from the Open House will be used to provide financial aid for families who wish to be enrolled in the club’s programs.

“One of the things is that we don’t turn anyone away due to financial circumstances, so we want to make sure everyone’s involved,” O’Farrell said. “This event allows us to do that.”

The inaugural Open House fundraiser saw more than 300 people attend, and though O’Farrell said they did not know what to expect, he hopes that they surpass the attendance for this year’s event.

Aside from being an entertaining night, O’Farrell said that it is a chance for West Springfield and its surrounding communities to show their support for the Boys and Girls Club. Residents and local businesses donated Red Sox, Patriots and Springfield Falcons tickets to be auctioned off, as well as other items.

“We’re very fortunate to have a very caring and supportive community that comes to rally around the club,” O’Farrell said. “We’ve got a good support base both out in the community and in local businesses and individuals that really come together supporting our efforts to expand programs.”

The Open House is a chance for the Boys and Girls Club to teach the community about its programs and give it an opportunity to expand them, O’Farrell said. That makes the response to the event even more special to O’Farrell and his staff.

“I think what’s really neat about an event like this is that you can actually see everyone come together have a good time, getting together not only because they want to have fun but because they want to support the club,” O’Farrell said. “Being able to see a whole gymnasium full of supporters is very moving.”

The Open House event will take place at the West Springfield Boys and Girls Club from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.