Opening Doors for Westerly’s Children (ODWC) was the inspiration of two women, Nancy Loney and Donna Simmons, who wrote to their friends and neighbors in March 2012 seeking donations of gently-used books for 30 children at UWRI’s Hasbro Learning Summer Initiative in Westerly and 60 children at Head Start. Deborah Lamm joined Nancy and Donna in November 2013, to formally establish a name and missio
n for their efforts: Opening Doors for Westerly’s Children. Julie White-Gooding undertook the administrative leadership role to establish an active and effective steering committee and initiate fund-raising strategies. United Way of RI helped launch ODWC allowing the organization to operate under its 501(c)3 status. Through the help from many generous donors ODWC was able to work towards its goal of providing books and backpacks to all low-income children in the Westerly Elementary schools. In June 2017, ODWC became an independent 501(c)(3). As an independent 501(c)3, ODWC looks forward to the future as we continue to support the needs of Westerly children and their families. Though the delivery of our work may change and grow, the focus will not. ODWC will remain dynamic and viable working with Westerly Public Schools, local agencies, private family foundations, volunteers and donors to help ensure the success of children who are the future of Westerly. Donors to our programs appreciate that 100% of their contributions will continue to benefit the children we serve. These are all our children. We are one zip code. We thank the community for their support and hope every contributor remains part of our energetic efforts.
