Breakthrough Springfest 2013 | Boston Area Event Photographer

Last week I learned two things. First I learned that there is event space available at The Moakley Courthouse in Boston.

Second, I was introduced to another organization in the Boston area that is doing some spectacular work for the youth in the Greater Boston Area.

Here’s a snippet from their website :

“Breakthrough Greater Boston (BTGB) is a year-round, tuition-free academic program that serves middle and high school students in greater Boston.”

Their event brought in lots of supporters and they were treated to a colorful ambiance.

There were fantastic prizes in the raffle as well as some wonderful big ticket, live auction items.

Around every corner I found guests conversing and socializing….. and just having a good ‘ol time.

The students and teachers also had a couple of stations to show people some of the ideas they have been learning about!

They all did such a great job!

Some delicious food was served and it was almost time to start the program.

Last minute discussion among a couple of the speakers…

… and then it was time for the program to begin…

The teachers and students got the crowd involved and energized immediately!

Elissa, Executive Director, had many thanks and praise to announce to the audience.

And the audience’s participation was phenomenal.

The testimonials from current and former students were moving.

And based on Kayla and Kevin’s stories at the podium, it is clear how much Breakthrough is making positive changes in young people’s lives.

As the night wrapped up and people grabbed a sweet and a souvenir… I reflected on how it was a great honor to meet so many wonderful people at Springfest 2013. Breakthrough is an organization truly worth knowing about and worth saluting for all of their accomplishments thus far.

Kuddos to you Breakthrough! You put together an amazing event!

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Is your organization hosting an event? Contact me directly for more information about Event Photography Coverage for your next event. jennaltonphoto@gmail.com

Connect for a Cause 2012 | Easter Seals Massachusetts

Earlier this month I had the extreme pleasure to work with the local Regional Chapter of the Easter Seals for their Connect for a Cause event. I met the most amazing individuals and was so inspired. These events are often feel-good motivators and this one was no exception!  I know you might not generally read the words on this blog but today’s will be worth it. I have gotten permission from both of the speakers to share their poems from the evening, as there is no way I could express anything as eloquently as either of them did. So, please be sure to check it out!

As guests arrived they were greeted at the registration desk and were able to check out the breath taking views of the Boston Skyline and the had opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for some great prizes…

As folks mingled and got settled in they were enjoying food and entertainment from the supporters of the event…

Attendees then focused their attention on some words and information. Followed by the first speaker… meet Remon.

“Unstoppable” by Remon Jourdan

“I used to think I was unstoppable. And then I woke up in a hospital thinking this can’t be possible. I was just driving home and I must’ve dozed. Because now I’m laying here with tubes in my mouth and my nose. So it just goes to show that we should live life to the fullest. Since none of us really knows where life’s going to put us…”

With the audiences undivided attention Shelia took center stage.

“I AM NOT”  by Sheila Radziewicz

Mangled, frail, delicate infant
Weak, poor, ignorant infant, I was NOT!

You did not have the power
to define my fate with Death

Cripple, feeble-minded, pitiful child
Unable, immobile, lame child, I was NOT!

I defied your prediction, then
I deny your position, now

Undetermined, incapable, paralyzed woman
Lessen, negative, powerless woman, I am NOT!

Fear forced your prediction of my Death
Fear created your insecurity
Fear does NOT rule me

Complete, strong, unbreakable infant
Bold, healthy, aware infant, I WAS!

I chose to prove you wrong
The power to live was mine

Whole, intelligent, witty, child
Able, mobile, bright child, I WAS!

I believed in myself
I knew success was coming

Determined, capable, secure woman
Brave, confident, powerful woman, I AM!

I fought against your fear
I fought against your insecurity
I chose LIFE when you would Not!

Truly amazing! And everyone was thrilled to continue the celebration. Well, possibly because next up was the announcement of prize winners… ha.

Oh, and did I mention that I had set up a photo area and many people enjoyed getting their photo taken?  Well, Yes indeed, it happened…

With that said, I also had one gentleman who may have enjoyed having his photo taken TOO much. Meet Darcy!  He entertained me for a few minutes and dragged a few other individuals into his antics… this is what I’m going to call my “Photo Bomb” of Darcy…  Enjoy sir!

Mostly I want to thank Remon and Sheila for their participation in the evening as well as sharing a few words for my blog.

In addition, I’m thrilled to have collaborated with Easter Seals and hope to share many more events with them. Their next event is April 12th, Ready, Set, Go.

Sheila Radziewicz’s Blog http://sheilaradziewicz.wordpress.com/

Remon Jourdan’s website http://reyality.com/

Easter Seals Massachusetts

Microsoft New England Research & Development Center

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Bakers Best Catering

Legal Sea Foods

The Bartending Service of New England

Summer Shack

Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Ice Cream

Tasca Tapas Restaurant

Soul Fire

Kinect – Xbox