Reflection of 35 Years of Service
It is hard to believe that our year of celebrating Brother Michael Reis and Tides Family Services has come to a close. Our 35th anniversary celebration on Friday October 26th was a huge success and we are all humbled by the support of the community. Over 350 people attended the celebration and listened to amazing speakers supporting our mission such as Judge Frank Caprio. and Bianca Perry a former client. It was great to see Senator Whitehouse, Congressman Langevin and Governor Raimondo in attendance along with numerous Judges and Government officials in charge of state services focused on children. Bianca Perry delivered a heartfelt speech that illustrates how Lasallian mission truly transforms lives.
Linda D’Amario Rossi, Board Chairperson announced the results of a recent pilot study that 264 of 311 Tides kids did not have any misdemeanor or felony convictions in the adult system. That is an 85% success rate that we are truly proud of.
As a tribute to his years of dedication, we have started a new program called –BMR- BELIEVE IN MAKING RESULTS. This program will work with children and families in what is truly preventative work. As Brother Michael always says, these are “the families who fly under the radar.” We would like to join the state of RI in its newly articulated mantra of “pivot to prevention.” This program is simple- it will give those in need time and attention so they do not become known to any other systems.
The generosity throughout the evening was overwhelming. We must take the time to thank our sponsors- please see the attached.
In addition, the numerous silent auction and raffle donations given to help us raise money for this new program.
We would like to have a special thank you to the Gallo Family Wineries for one again supplying the evening wine and in particular to Alex Stack, VP of Martignetti Companies for arranging the wine donation with Chris and Sandy Gasbarro.
There are so many unsung heroes that should be acknowledged and you know who you are.
There is still time to support the new program by going to our website donation page.
Check out the events pictures our amazing video
~ Beth Bixby