|
Local Talent Raises Funds for Hope
on 5th at Open Mic Night
[June 19, 2025]
A temperate Thursday evening in
downtown Lincoln was the setting for an Open Mic fundraiser at
Spirited Republic on behalf of Hope on 5th on June 12. The outdoor
cafe tables were full and chairs lined the sidewalk and a few
patrons even watched through the windows inside Spirited Republic to
enjoy local singers performing for a good cause. The Open Mic night
fundraiser was hosted by Silas Tockey who also performed.
The evening began with scheduled
performances from Britney Dobson McLaughlin, followed by Betsy
Butell, Lesleigh Bennett, and Austin Garriott. Other local singers
also joined the line-up including Judge Tom Funk, Hope on 5th board
member, who performed an original composition and a Bob Dylan cover
accompanied by Michael Gowin on acoustic guitar.
Board Chairperson Kim Turner spoke
on behalf of Hope on 5th. She thanked all of the participants and
patrons for supporting the work at Hope on 5th. She reported that 19
adults and ten children experiencing homelessness are currently
being served by Hope on 5th and 15 people are on the waiting list.
The board continues to add services at their facility on 5th Street
with plans for more, which is why the board is organizing
fundraisers. Springfield Veteran Services will soon begin providing
services to add to the resources already present, such as legal aid
and recovery meetings. The volunteer board meets weekly to plan and
manage the facility.
[to top of second column] |
Turner acknowledged sponsors Red Oak Financial, Lincoln Memorial
Hospital, Walmart, and Brian Huff in her remarks. She also
offered thanks to Spirited Republic, Top Hat Creamery, and
Guzzardo’s Italian Villa who donated a portion of their
evening’s proceeds to Hope on 5th. Comfort Inn and Suites,
Lincoln also donated a door prize of one free night’s stay. It
was later announced that the Open Mic night raised $1500.
Hope on 5th is a non-profit
organization that “promotes community services and provides shelter
to central Illinois veterans, homeless and those at risk of
homelessness through offering services and housing on an emergency,
temporary, transitional, and permanent basis.” Hope on 5th is
primarily funded by donations and grants. The next fundraiser for
Hope on 5th will be a Rummage Sale on Saturday, June 28 from 7 a.m.
to 3 p.m. at the Logan County Fairgrounds.
[Stephanie Hall]
|
