HARRISBURG – The Concert for a Cause Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos event, held at Southeastern Illinois College’s Deaton Gymnasium and co-hosted by Ferrell Hospital, once again proved to be a resounding success, raising nearly $25,000 in support of scholarships and medical patient transport services.
With a lively atmosphere and the talents of three versatile musicians who catered to requests they mentioned could have gone on for six hours, the event drew in nearly 350 attendees, contributing to its financial success through sponsorships, ticket sales, donations, the online silent auction, balloon pop, heads-or-tails game, and specialty drink contributions.
Sponsorships for the event ranged from $2,000 to $500, with notable sponsors including Align Wealth Management with Michael Tison as the premier sponsor, Foresight Energy sponsoring “Hungry Like the Wolf,” and a host of other generous sponsors such as All-In-One Real Estate Company, Aramark Uniform Services, Banterra Bank, Dr. & Mrs. Chris Barr & Family, CAVU Wealth Advisors, Cedar Pond Enterprises/Tempus Consulting Group, Legence Bank, Mr. Shawn Russell, Mr. & Mrs. E.T. Seely, Signet Health, Beecher & Helen Williams, and State Rep. Patrick Windhorst. State Senator Dale Fowler sponsored the balloon pop.
Callie Smith, Ferrell Hospital’s Director of Community Relations/Foundation, expressed pride in the ongoing success of the collaboration, stating, “Ferrell Hospital is proud to close out another year co-hosting Concert for a Cause with SIC. It’s a pleasure to help host an event that benefits two great organizations and is fun for the community.”
The evening commenced with dinner prepared by the SIC Falcon Bistro’s Chef Michael Intravaia, complemented by cheesecakes donated by Maple Street Café at Ferrell Hospital and cash beverage services provided by Morello’s, who pledged a portion of their specialty drink sales to the fundraiser. Photography services were generously donated by Jeff Jones, while Epic Snap provided a photo booth for guests to enjoy.
Attendees reveled in the entertainment provided by the talented musicians from the world-famous Howl at the Moon, generously tipping and contributing to the lively atmosphere. The auction, featuring an array of items donated by local businesses, was conducted online, allowing remote participation and widening the event’s reach.
Half of the funds raised will be allocated to support patient transportation services at Ferrell Hospital, while the remaining proceeds will bolster the endowment for SIC student scholarships and support. Notably, every dollar raised for SIC will be matched by a federal Title III grant, amplifying the impact of the event.
“SIC is deeply appreciative of the unwavering backing from our community and the exceptional partnership with Ferrell Hospital for the past five years,” stated SIC President Dr. Jonah Rice. “From its humble beginnings, this event has evolved into a cherished tradition.”
For those interested in contributing further, additional avenues for donations to both organizations are available online. For additional ways to give to SIC, visit sic.edu/give or email giving@sic.edu. For additional ways to give to Ferrell Hospital, visit ferrellhosp.org/For-You/Ferrell-Foundation or email foundation@ferrellhospital.org.