The History of Riverview School’s Annual Benefit Gala
In June of 1998, the first Benefit Gala was dampened by wind and rain that swept over Cape Cod. With the rain drizzling in the back and side of the gym, we battled throughout the evening to raise $30,000 for Riverview School, but more importantly, made a wonderful friend.
Christianne Ricchi along with Francesco Ricchi, first year parents in 1998, told us of the fundraising efforts of celebrity chefs in the Washington, DC area. Chris collaborated with Francesco and their chef friends. Debbie Cowan, also a parent, was extremely instrumental in the formation of this wonderful night as well. The idea took off. Parents, friends and the community alike all became part of our first Cape Cod Garden Party.
In June of 1999, the School went from a buffet of seafood casserole and rice to a six-course dinner served by local high school and college students. The auction that year raised over $100,000. In conjunction with Riverview School’s Development Office, Chris and Debbie worked on every detail, creating a gala that became a staple in the Riverview community.
As the years progressed, so did the success of this fabulous event. With the successes of Gala Benefits, we have been able to raise nearly $3.5 million! The 2006 Benefit grossed $649,000 and supported the School's Technology Initiative and the construction of a new dormitory. And the 2007 Gala grossed $615,000 for the enhancement of Riverview's arts program.
In recent years the Benefit Gala, Village of Dreams, has been held under a gorgeous tent in the center of Davis Field on campus and attended by over 500 people. As in past years, the food was created with a fabulous flair and perfected by our world-renowned chefs and friends. The auction is always a fun and entertaining affair with many wonderful, and some exotic, items being sold.
Over the years, the funds raised from this yearly extravaganza have been used to complete construction of McKelvey and Trulaske Halls as well as furnish the campus Wellness Center, update the school’s communication and technology systems, and supply Library Carts to all residences.
View Samples of 2009 Auction Items
For information or to join the Riverview community in this celebration, please contact
Diane Hufnagle, Development Coordinator
Phone: 508.888.0489, ext. 212.
Fax: 508.833.7005
Email: dhufnagle@riverviewschool.org
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