Smith & Wesson Supports Two Local Children’s Charities with Night of Live Comedy
OutdoorHub 05.16.14
James Debney, President and Chief Executive Officer of Smith & Wesson presented proceeds from its Third Annual Live Comedy Show to Shriners Hospitals for Children and the Ronald McDonald House, both of Springfield. More than $26,000 was raised for Shriners Hospitals for Children and the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield. Smith & Wesson then matched those contributions, resulting in a total donation of $34,225 to the Shriners Hospitals for Children and $17,087 to the Ronald McDonald House. The funds were presented to representatives from each organization during a special ceremony held at the Shriners Hospital for Children.
James Debney, President and CEO of Smith & Wesson said, “We are proud to once again support the staff at both the Shriners Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House who work tirelessly to help families experiencing medical crises and we are honored to acknowledge their efforts. We are all working together to build a strong community and these two organizations are an example of hard work and dedication to our city and its families”.
Smith & Wesson employees organized the comedy show, which drew a sell-out crowd of 600 friends including many local businesses and supporters of these two great children’s charities at The Cedar’s Banquet Hall for a night of laughter and goodwill. The culinary students at Chicopee Comprehensive High School led by Chef Norm Boucher prepared an array of appetizers. Also assisting were Chefs Ryan Rege from Pathfinder Vocational and Eric Rogers from the Shriners Hospital. From general’s chicken to logoed ice sculptures surrounded with shrimp, the students prepared an impressive and delicious display.
On hand providing live entertainment was the Pioneer Valley’s own Chris Zito from Mix 93.1 along with fellow comedians Stacy Kendro and Steve Halligan. This annual fundraiser is a highly anticipated event that links together three of Springfield’s finest organizations.
“Comedy Night has established a great following of supporters who are committed to helping children and families while they are confronted with medical issues. Shriners Hospital is especially grateful to the staff at Smith & Wesson for its dedication to annual event,” stated Karen Motyka, donor development officer for Shriners Hospitals for Children.
“The great work of the Smith & Wesson employees is greatly appreciated and admired. Working along side Shriner’s Hospital, whose many families we help at the Ronald McDonald House, is always a pleasure and our partnership helps improve the lives of countless families and children,” said Jennifer Putnam, Vice President of Operations, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts – Springfield House.
