By Josh Perry
Hometown Weekly Staff
Last Friday night, Needham High’s French Club held its annual “La Soiree de la Francophone” (French Night), featuring food, performances by student groups, and more all focused on French and francophone culture.
The event was also a fundraiser for WATERisLIFE, a nonprofit organization that promotes education and tools for bringing safe water and hygiene to countries around the world, including many with francophone roots, such as Haiti.
At of the time of writing, it was not determined how much had been raised to support the charity, but the cafeteria was filled with people again on Friday night enjoying the food and the cultural experience that the Needham High students provided.
"It was really rewarding to see people excited about our event," said French Club co-president Anna Desmarais. "So many classmates helped out with food which was amazing. The event was all ages which was a nice family friendly feel. With so much preparation, watching everyone enjoy the cultural experience was great."
She added, "Our favorite part of the night was when Annie [Gardella, co-president] and I were backstage as the WATERisLIFE video came on at the start of the show. We were so thrilled to make such a difference for this charity we love so much."
There was dancing, singing, great food and more, and the Needham community showed its appreciation for another fun party organized by Desmarais and Gardella.
Desmarais said, "After 4 years of watching the town and the charities reap the benefits of our event, it was nice to finally put our spin on what we want the night to be about."
Click HERE for more photos from “La Soiree de la Francophone."
Josh Perry is an Editor at Hometown Weekly. He can be reached at news@hometownweekly.net and followed on Twitter at @Josh_Perry10.
