The 2024 ODA Holiday Dinner was an unforgettable evening of joy, connection, and celebration, thanks to our families, scholars, staff, volunteers, and the support of presenting sponsor and law firm, Dworken & Bernstein. Held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at Windows on the River in downtown Cleveland, the event welcomed nearly 900 members of our community to celebrate the holiday season together.
The evening took place across three floors of festive activities, with scholars and their families dressed in their holiday best. From delicious food to cheerful entertainment, the event fostered a true sense of connection and community. As families laughed, connected, celebrated the season, and busted a move on the packed dance floor, the impact of this event was clear: it created a moment to inspire, nurture, and strengthen the bonds that make our ODA community so special.
During the final weeks leading up to the event, in a generous act of partnership and philanthropy, Dworken & Bernstein presented ODA with a $50,000 sponsorship check.
Patrick Perotti, a partner at Dworken & Bernstein, delivered a heartfelt message from the stage during the evening that had the room captivated.
“Over the years, we’ve helped many organizations through our firm’s charitable giving programs, and I don't usually see as many members or participants of the organizations at the events as I see here tonight,” said Perotti during his remarks. “That makes me very, very happy that we could help a group like yours, where the organization obviously brings you in. You become part of their family, and they become part of your family.”
Mr. Perotti also shared how Dworken & Bernstein was able to fund such a meaningful event. By leveraging the cy pres doctrine, the firm is able to direct unclaimed funds from class action lawsuits toward nonprofit organizations like ODA. The doctrine allows these unclaimed funds to be repurposed to charitable causes when direct compensation to claimants is no longer possible or feasible. By recognizing the value of ODA’s work in educational equity and family engagement, Dworken & Bernstein has shown how creative giving can transform lives.
Dworken & Bernstein is a law firm with a long history of serving Northeast Ohio. They are not only known for legal excellence but also for their “Ohio Lawyers Give Back” program. Through their innovative use of unclaimed class action settlement funds, they have supported countless nonprofits across the region, including Open Doors Academy. Their belief in strengthening communities through intentional giving has set a great example for others to follow.
We remain inspired by the spirit of giving that made this event so special and are deeply grateful to Dworken & Bernstein. We look forward to continuing and forging new partnerships like this one in 2025 to bring scholars, families, and the entire ODA community together.
-----
This article is a part of the January 2025 PINC Newsletter. To read more articles from this newsletter, click here or the button below.
