December 5, 2017

A Few Good Men Come to Clarke at 7 Tide

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Beautiful design and extraordinary performance are things that inspire us when we experience an exceptional kitchen design. However, when it comes to inspiration, there is nothing that can surpass seeing a child excel above and beyond what was ever expected. It’s this kind of inspiration that captured the heart of Clarke CEO Tom Clarke several years ago when he first encountered the Nativity School of Worcester.

Nativity School of Worcester is an accredited, independent, Jesuit middle school that provides a quality, all-scholarship education to underserved boys of all faiths. Drawing upon four pillars – strength, scholarship, character, and service – a Nativity education inspires self-discovery, responsibility, spiritual growth, and a lifelong dedication to learning. As a Holy Cross graduate, Tom Clarke was introduced to this unique school, which his alma mater patterned after a similar institution in New York City, when they realized that a devastating graduation rate for low-income boys was wracking the city.

After 15 years, graduates from Nativity School of Worcester have not only gone on to graduate from area high schools, they have attended and earned degrees from some of the finest colleges and universities in country.

In honor of this dedication to academic and personal success, Clarke recently hosted a fundraiser for Nativity School at Clarke’s 7 Tide showroom in Boston Seaport. While a local celebrity chef, fine musicians and gourmet food were highlights of the evening, nothing delighted the 200-plus guests more than meeting the young ambassadors from the Nativity School. One student spoke to the crowd about his experience at the school, while an alumnus reported on his trajectory after leaving Nativity School, sharing eloquently about his path to success. In addition to these scholars, 20 other students and parents enjoyed sharing their stories with guests and showing unbridled appreciation for all they’ve been given.

Prior to sitting down to a sumptuous meal, Chef Matt King of Smith & Wollensky taught the group how to make the perfect steak and Electric Violinist Vivian Luo of Boston wowed the crowd with her exciting performance.

This was Clarke’s third event to benefit the Nativity School and thanks to the generosity of family and friends, the evening raised more than $200,000 for this inspiring school. Auctioneer Tom Clarke had the paddles going up around the room and the event brought in 25% more than last year’s fundraiser. As a result of this night, 13 deserving young men will have a free four-year education to launch them on their way to high school and college.

We thank everyone who participated. It was a night of inspiration to be sure – great food, incredible talent and a group of young men who are surely going places in the world because they earned their spot in a school that truly makes a difference.