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Record-Breaking Funds Raised at JFS's Live Laugh Give Comedy Night
August 2024
By Julie Loftis, JFS Marketing Specialist
On June 9, 2024, more than 300 guests “laughed and gave at Jewish Family Services’ (JFS) Live Laugh Give comedy night fundraising event. This year, honorees Barbara and Jerry Levin were recognized for their many contributions to both the Jewish and greater Charlotte community. The event welcomed headliner Modi Rosenfeld, who did not disappoint with his one-liners and jokes.
Live Laugh Give 2024 was our most successful event to date, raising approximately $250,000. Howard Olshansky, JFS’ executive director, remarked, “We are so moved that once again our community opened their hearts, and the event raised over $250,000 to help JFS secure the necessary resources needed to meet the growing needs of our community.” Olshansky shared that since the first year of this event, JFS’ services have expanded by over 60% in response to our community's growing needs. In particular, he talked about the current mental health crisis being experienced by our youth, especially with the rise in antisemitism in our schools and college campuses. He indicated that money raised from this year's event will help support the creation of a mental health plan for our community's children and youth who are experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety.
We are grateful for our cochairs, Adina Loewensteiner and Blair Goldsmith, and for the generosity of our sponsors, led by our Entertainment Underwriters, Lebo's. The entertainment was preceded by a sponsor reception underwritten by Pinnacle Financial Partners and closed with a dessert reception, which featured a meet-and-greet with Modi.
Funds raised from Live Laugh Give, the annual Family to Family Campaign starting in September, and generous donations throughout the year help JFS maintain the crucial support our community relies on. Thanks to our supportive community, Live Laugh Give surpassed expectations. For more information on donating funds, contributing to the food pantry, or volunteering, please visit JFSCharlotte.org or call (704) 364-6594.
