Many SOWMA friends came to Lombardo’s in Randolph to Open Doors for School on Wheels students and celebrate their success, on Friday evening, September 18.

Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dancing to the Legit Band, silent and live auctions, and raffles. Following a School on Wheels slide presentation, Arny, a School on Wheels student, shared the story of her journey from a student experiencing homelessness to her participation in a student leadership conference in Washington, DC this summer. Lila Burgess, Director of Family Services at Old Colony YMCA, spoke about the experiences of families living in shelter and the academic challenges that homeless students face.

Cheryl Opper, founder and executive director, presented the “Champion for our Kids” corporate partner award to Jim McDonough, President and CEO of Randolph Savings Bank for their efforts to bring School on Wheels’ services to the Randolph community.

To close the program portion of the evening, SOWMA’s High School Plus student and Bridgewater State University Scholar, Zachary, sent greetings and shared his new experiences from South Korea where he has begun his sophomore year studying abroad.

Our emcee, Brian Shactman, NECN morning news anchor, brought the event to life, conducting the live auction and dancing with Cheryl Opper.

Guests were supportive of School on Wheels students with donations, sponsorship and encouragement for continued success. View photos of School on Wheels Open the Door Gala.

All proceeds raised at the gala help provide academic support and one-on-one mentoring, empowering children to reach their full potential.