Weekend’s Westport Rock, Rhythm & Blues Festival. 30 Year Supporting A Wish Come True.

The 30th Anniversary of the Westport Rock, Rhythm & Blues Festival will be celebrated Saturday and Sunday, September 6th and 7th from 1 to 6pm at the Holy Ghost Club, 171 Sodom Road in Westport. What started as a small idea among friends has grown into a beloved Westport tradition—one that has raised over $1.3 million and has brought countless smiles to children through the funds raised for A Wish Come True.

Founders Frank Ray and Wendy Sperduti reflected on the festival’s history, highlights, and the deep passion behind it. One thing is clear: “It’s all about the kids.â€

Mary-Kate O’Leary, A Wish Come True Director filled us in —

How it all began:

Frank recalls the moment that sparked it all: “In 1994, Carl Santos and I were at a music festival and thought, “Hey, we could get our bands together, jam, and raise money for a local charity!â€

After looking at several organizations, they chose A Wish Come True—partly because Frank’s good friend, Jimmy Cavanaugh, was already involved, and partly because 90 cents of every dollar directly funds magical wishes.

As a member of the Holy Ghost Club Board, Frank helped secure the festival’s home base. The club agreed to host the event on its grounds free of charge every year—a commitment written into its by-laws. The festival became a showcase for talented local bands and a powerful fundraising force.

Memorable moments over the years:

Over the decades, the festival has become more than just a music event—it’s a reunion of friends, families, and supporters.

“People you don’t see all year come out for this,†Wendy says. “It’s a family affair. Everyone takes ownership to support these amazing Wish families. “Frank remembers an unexpected act of generosity:

“Wendy and I were in Cozumel telling a man named Blake Chatman from Canada about the festival. He said he wanted to help—and he drove down from Canada to volunteer for years. Even after his passing, his dedication still touches us.â€

How the festival has evolved:

In its early years, the festival spanned Saturday and Sunday, with volunteers and musicians celebrating late into Sunday night over a potluck dinner. As the years went by, a Friday volunteer chicken dinner was added—eventually maxing out at 250 dinners. In recent years, food trucks replaced dinners to simplify logistics. “We’re no spring chickens anymore—pun intended,†Frank laughs. Today, the festival runs over two days, keeping the focus on music, community, and the mission.

A Wish Come True’s mission—and its impact:

Frank has served on the A Wish Come True Board and watched the organization grow.

“It’s incredible to see how AWCT has expanded. They’re not just granting wishes—they’re supporting whole families now,†he says.

He recalls a single mother from his neighborhood working three jobs to make ends meet.

“A Wish Come True gave her child a magical trip—and gave her hope. It’s more than a wish. It’s knowing you’re not alone.â€

Wendy adds, “We love seeing Wish families return—even 30 years later. It’s a powerful reminder of why we keep going. 30 years is an incredible commitment to one nonprofit,†stated Paula Pais Leach, Board Chairwoman. “Events are always tons of work, but it is seamless with this group of dedicated volunteers, all focused on making wishes come true. It is truly inspirational.â€

Community support:

The festival’s success comes from the heart of Westport. “People feel the passion and step up,†Wendy says. “We see festival shirts around town all year. Volunteers like retired police officer Dave Arruda have donated their time every year, along with so many others who cook, serve, and set up. It’s inspiring.â€

Motivation and the future:

For Frank, the motivation is simple: “It’s seeing friends, kids, and families come together. People from all walks of life put differences aside for one reason—raising money for the kids.â€

Wendy agrees: “There’s a lot of work behind the scenes, but there’s never a doubt it will get done. That’s what family does—they step up.†As for the future? “Yes—we’ll keep going. More kids need our help. We’ll keep playing music, having fun, and raising money for A Wish Come True.â€

🎸 Festival Highlights: 30 Years by the Numbers:

• • 1994 – First Westport Rock, Rhythm & Blues Festival held at the Holy Ghost Club grounds.
  • 30 – Continuous years raising money for A Wish Come True.
  • Over $1,300,000 Raised
  • 260 – Wishes Granted
  • 50+ Bands – Local and regional acts that have graced the festival stage.
  • Thousands of Attendees – Friends, families, and music lovers gathering year after year.
  • Countless Volunteers – The heart of the festival, from set-up crews to food service teams.

• 1 Mission – “It’s all about the kids.â€

About A Wish Come True:

A Wish Come True, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded on October 8, 1982. Their mission is to provide wishes and resources to families with a child (ages 3-18), suffering with a life-threatening illness who live throughout Rhode Island, Central and Southeastern Massachusetts or Eastern Connecticut. AWCT have granted close to 1,900 wishes.

Tickets are available at the door: Holy Ghost Club, 171 Sodom Rd., Westport RI. $20 per day and free for kids 12 and under.

For more details about the event and/or the organization, please visit the AWCT website at www.awish.org. Or, feel free to contact Mary-Kate O’Leary either by phone at 401-781-9199, directly at 401-644-2237, or email at: [email protected]