Since 2002, A Better Chance of Westport has been giving motivated, outstanding minority youth, the opportunity to achieve their dreams through education. With the support of their families, our scholars apply to this game-changing program in the hope of achieving a better future. It is our belief that these young men, through their experiences while attending Staples High School, one of Connecticut's and the nation's top performing high schools, and in their involvement with the Westport community, will become successful members of society, capable of leading the way not only for themselves but also for others who will follow.
Now entering our second decade, A Better Chance of Westport has truly enriched our community, our families and our schools. Saturday, March 23rd at The Westport Inn was our signature fundraiser, the ABC Dream Event, which aims to raise enough money to fund a significant portion of the scholars’ upcoming year. This year's Event was one of the best yet. Almost all of our Alumni returned to spend time with the current scholars, their previous host families and Westport friends. Rhyse McLean, our high school senior, gave an eloquent and heartfelt speech as he talked about the opportunities he has gained, the challenges he is proud to have overcome, and the people who have helped him become who he is today through the ABC program.
Then the guests enjoyed an inside look at the scholars’ interests and daily lives through a fun, short video created by Ian Hubbell and Casey Denton. By the end of the night, we all felt even more grateful for having the scholars in our lives and for the many opportunities afforded to all, ABC volunteers and scholars alike. The amazing auction items were quickly bought by appreciative and generous buyers. Many of our wish list items were also purchased during the evening. SHS student volunteers were impeccable servers as they delivered delicious courses and drinks to guests during the sit-down dinner. Plus, we had a variety of musical talent, ranging from pianist Louisa Freeman and violinist Bridgette Johnson, who played during the cocktail hour,
to the uplifting jazz trio led by Nick Hubbell, who played during dinner. Wesley Lemon, one of our alumni, sang a song with the trio. Another evening highlight was hearing a few words from our college seniors graduating in May - Jonathan Choi (Harvard), Khalif Rivers (WVU) and Charles Winslow (Cornell). The Dream Event was a wonderful and inspiring evening and we thank all of our attendees and non-attendee donors as well as the donors of the silent and live auction items. We look forward to seeing you at next year's Dream Event!
