WESTFIELD — This Saturday, May 17, from noon to 6 p.m., the grounds at Whip City Animal Sanctuary on 232 Montgomery Rd. will be turned into a music festival, family celebration and show of support for one of Westfield’s own. “Groovin’ with Garrett” will be a full day of live music, food trucks and dozens of raffles, all in support of Garrett Wheeler, a beloved 28-year-old local man who was recently paralyzed in a skiing accident.
Hosted by Steve Nagel and powered by a 100% volunteer team, this uplifting event aims to raise crucial funds for Garrett’s recovery — including adaptive equipment, home modifications, and long-term rehabilitation expenses.
The bands and venue are donating their time and talent, and more than 50 volunteers are working hard to ensure the event is a success, said Mike Cianciola, a family friend and one of the organizers of the event.
There will be live performances by Westfield’s Madison Curbelo of The Voice, Rednave, the Dave O Band, Vicky and Brian Show, Southern Rain and The Friendship Band. Cianciola said that Garrett is a member of the Friendship Band, the last band that will perform and will close out the festival.
Tickets are $30 in advance for ages 11 and up and $40 at the gate. Under 10 are free. Advance tickets may be purchased in advance at Groovin’ with Garrett | EventSprout.
Volunteers from the Whip City Animal Sanctuary and Northampton Honor Society are heading up the large group of volunteers that will be running the event. Elm Electric will be running electricity to the stage and tent, lawn games will be brought over by the Down Syndrome Resource Group and Valet Park of America is going to help with parking, Cianciola said.
Food trucks that have signed up for the festival include Log Rolling from the Log Cabin, Poppi’s, a beer truck from The Beer Guy and Moolicious Creamery.
“We are a group of friends and family volunteering our time to put this event together because Garrett has made a lasting impact on our lives and our community,” Cianciola said, adding that Garrett has already endured unimaginable personal losses, including the tragic loss of his maternal grandparents, Pat and Danny Cyr, in Hampton Ponds, and the loss of his brother Ken DeJordy in a motorcycle accident in Huntington.
“Despite everything, Garrett continues to inspire those around him with his resilience and positive spirit. He is an active member of the Down syndrome community, participates in the Special Olympics, and even plans to take up shot put despite his recent injury. He has also been a long-time volunteer at Whip City Animal Sanctuary and is a proud graduate of Westfield High School.”
Cianciola said Garrett’s family is now facing significant emotional and financial challenges as they adjust to his new reality, and members of the committee are hoping to rally support to help them during this difficult time. “We wanted to show Garrett that the community is behind him. That’s why we decided to put on this event,” he said, adding the way people may help is to purchase tickets and attend the event.
“This is a family-friendly, feel-good day of music and community support. Bring your lawn chairs, your dancing shoes, and your generous spirit.”
For those who cannot attend, a GoFundMe page has been set up to help with Garrett’s ongoing expenses at GoFundMe – Support Garrett Wheeler
A rain date has been set for Sunday, May 18. Check the Facebook page at Groovin’ with Garrett for updates at Groovin’ with Garrett | Facebook
