The Gala reached unprecedented heights this year! Our sold-out event raised an impressive $296,342, shattering fundraising records and demonstrating the extraordinary generosity of Riverside’s supporters. The lively evening united our community and enhanced our ability to provide child mental health and family services throughout Cambridge, Somerville, and surrounding areas.

The Gala was brought to life through the hard work of an incredible team including Melissa Kogut (Vice President, Development), Sharon Mombru (Gala Co-chair), Kerri Irons (Senior Development Officer), Cecile Garcin (Riverside Board Member & Gala Co-chair ), & Roberta Biscan (Community Engagement Specialist).

Highlights of the event include delicious food, fantastic auction items, and touching speeches emphasizing the importance of Riverside’s mission. Parents Sara and Simon detailed how Riverside supported their family as their son learned to manage his mental health challenges. John Trautwein, former Red Sox pitcher and founder of The Will to Live Foundation, shared his deeply moving journey of cultivating resilience after losing his son to suicide. These powerful testimonials resonated deeply with audience members and highlighted the critical need for accessible mental health services.

John Trautwein, Founder of The Will to Live Foundation, alongside Vic DiGravio, Riverside’s President & CEO.

Riverside extends its deepest gratitude to our generous sponsors, passionate committee members, and every supporter who helped make The Gala truly unforgettable. Together, we’re building a brighter future for people navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.

Pictured from left to right are Riverside leaders Tarshe Derival (Assistant Vice President, Child & Family Services), Kim Martin (Executive Director, Riverside Trauma Center), and Beth Everts (Vice President, Child & Family Services) amid the gala celebrations.

For those who couldn’t attend but would still like to support Riverside’s mission, we encourage you to make a gift today. Every donation helps community members live meaningful, healthy lives. We hope to see you at next year’s gala!

Gala attendees, including Kim Fisher, second from left (Chief Behavioral Health Strategy Officer), Dr. Joseph Shrand, second from right (Chief Medical Officer), & Marsha Medalie, right (Former Riverside CEO), were proud to demonstrate their support of Riverside’s mission.
Cheers to another successful gala!