Cabaret For WCSU Child Care, April 13

DANBURY — Western Connecticut State University will present its 14th Cabaret to benefit the WCSU Child Care Center at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, April 13, at the Westside Campus Center Ballroom, 43 Lake Avenue Extension.

The event is open to the public. Tickets are $15, and are available at the Info Desks at the WCSU Midtown or Westside campuses or by calling 203-837-TIXX.

The cabaret was initiated in 1996 after increased interest on campus for a child care center. The first cabaret was held in order to raise awareness and support to start the center, which opened in September 1997. The event has been held since then to raise funds to provide child care grants to help WCSU students offset the cost of child care. 

Since the opening of the center, more than $58,000 in grant money has been awarded to 122 students, which has helped offset up to 40 percent of their costs. 

Jennifer Torres was able to return WCSU with a 3-year-old child because of the center, and with the help of the grant. 

“It was wonderful. I knew my daughter was close and safe,” said Ms Torres. “I knew she was well taken care of. They do so much.”

WCSU Career Development Center Director Maureen Gernert, chair of the WCSU Child Care Board of Advisers, spoke of the helpfulness of the Cabaret to help support Western students who use the Child Care Center. 

“The WCSU Child Care Center allows the parent to be a successful student and have a safe learning environment while in school,” Ms Gernert said. “It is through the generosity of our students, faculty and staff that we coordinate the event each year to help pay for the expenses at the WCSU Child Care Center.” 

Among the acts set to perform are The Schmooze Brothers, featuring Vice President of Student Affairs Dr Walter Bernstein, Dean of Student Affairs Dr Walter Cramer, Professor of Communication Dr Bill Petkanas and Professor of Theatre Arts Sal Trapani. Dr Petkanas on guitar also will play with the house band that includes Dan Mustin on drums, Mike Minard on keyboard and a WCSU student on bass.

The event also will feature gourmet sandwiches and a cash bar, as well as a silent auction and several raffles. Among the items up for bid at the event include an iPad, gift certificates, tickets and much more.

For more information, contact Dr Gernert at 203-837-8266.