Buona Sera Benefit Lights up Boston’s North End
On October 15th, the ABCD North End/West End Neighborhood Service Center (NE/WE NSC) hosted its 13th annual Buona Sera: An Evening with Friends, bringing together ABCD Board members, colleagues, community partners, and longtime supporters for a memorable evening.
The celebration began with guests enjoying a lively networking reception at the University of Massachusetts Club before heading to one of eleven participating North End restaurants. Among this year’s standout venues were Mamma Maria, Prezza, and Assaggio, each offering an unforgettable dining experience that reflected the warmth and flavor of the Italian neighborhood.
ABCD President and CEO Sharon Scott-Chandler opened the evening by welcoming guests and expressing gratitude to the event’s sponsors, donors, and celebrity participants for their ongoing support of ABCD’s mission and programming. NE/WE NSC Director Julia Power followed with remarks about the new West End site, made possible through major support by Mass General Brigham, and spoke about how funds raised through Buona Sera will strengthen programs serving older adults in both the North End and West End communities.
The event featured an impressive group of VIP guests, including Senator Lydia Edwards, House Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz, State Representative Jay Livingstone, City Councilors Henry Santana and Gabriela Coletta-Zapata, MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng, and City of Boston Chief of Planning Kairos Shen, who served as the keynote celebrity speaker. Shen shared thoughtful insights on urban planning and the importance of community spaces that bring people together.
Through the generosity of sponsors, guests, and participating restaurants, $20,000 was raised to support the North End/West End Neighborhood Service Center’s programs for seniors. These funds will help provide nutritious meals, engaging activities, and a welcoming space for hundreds of older adults each year.
The North End/West End Neighborhood Service Center extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of Buona Sera 2025, especially Rebecca Mattson, NE/WE NSC Fundraising Chair, and Principal of Sagebrook Development. The evening was a true celebration of friendship, partnership, and ABCD’s shared commitment to caring for Boston’s neighborhoods.