RIVERVIEW SCHOOL’S 25th ANNUAL VILLAGE OF DREAMS GALA RAISES A RECORD BREAKING $1MILLION IN SUPPORT OF THE ARTS!

Nearly 400 people attended Riverview’s 25th Annual Village of Dreams Gala on Friday, June 16th, 2023, in support of expanding the school’s Arts programming. At Riverview, we believe in exceptional programming for our exceptional students. The Arts provide critical pathways for transformational expression and give numerous opportunities for authentic self-discovery, leading to multitudes of positive outcomes for our students.

The Gala and auction took place on the brand-new MC Greene Field under an open-air tent on a beautiful night on Riverview’s East Sandwich campus. The event set a fundraising record for the school netting over $1,000,000 through ticket sales, sponsorships, a robust silent and LIVE auction, and an inspiring Fund a Dream paddle raise.

Much of the décor and all the entertainment was provided by Riverview’s creative and talented students. Riverview Visual Arts teacher, Cathy Sampson, taught a Gala-centric art class leading up to the event which produced a stunning gallery of student art as the centerpiece for the stage. Visual & Performing Arts Coordinator Greg Simpson worked with student DJs The Boom Squad who provided music during cocktail hour and student band S.T.L (Sky’s the Limit) opened the night with a high energy show-stopping performance.

The event kicked off with a lively cocktail hour. An animated wine toss entertained the crowd, memories were captured at the photo booth, and supporters flocked to the raffle table for a chance to win gorgeous diamond hoop earrings. Existing relationships were strengthened, and new friendships were formed.

The live and silent auctions incorporated items from categories including sports tickets, beautiful high-end jewelry, fine art, exciting dining opportunities, one-of-a-kind Riverview-specific items, and luxury trips to destinations from Tuscany to Anguilla.

The Gala was hosted for the second year in a row by Riverview parent, advocate, and actor Amy Brenneman. Honored that evening were long-time supporters of the school and, art enthusiasts Rebecca and Marty Eisenberg with The Dream Maker Award, presented to those who have had a transformational impact on the Riverview School community.

Head of School, Stewart Miller, and Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator, Greg Simpson spoke about the positive benefits of the arts on Riverview students and the community, which was then exemplified in a video of Riverview students, staff, and parents speaking about their unique experiences and successes. Based on the strength of some amazing lead gifts to kick off the Fund-A-Dream paddle raise, an inspired Riverview community responded by raising over $500,000 in support of the Arts at Riverview School.

It truly takes a village, and The Gala could not have been made possible without the dedication of the 40+ person Gala committee led by Gala Chair; Linda Ledoux and Gala Co-Chair; Barb Noble, the hard-working volunteers (many of whom are Riverview staff), talented vendors and partners, and the immense generosity of Riverview School’s devoted sponsors and donors.