Photo courtesy of the Exceptional Foundation
Two Exceptional Foundation participants perform at the annual Dinnertainment fundraiser in 2017 at Country Club of Birmingham. The event had a movie theme, drawing on films like “Rocky” and “Grease.” Photo courtesy of the Exceptional Foundation.
At The Exceptional Foundation, participants of all ages with special needs enjoy daily recreation, including songs, dance, skits, jokes, magic and art.
So in 2014, Foundation staff decided to host a dinner show fundraiser that would allow participants to show off their talents and offer supporters an entertaining glimpse of the facility’s daily routine.
The annual Dinnertainment event was born and will be back for the fifth time, Friday night, Sept. 21.
There will be an art show and reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at 6:30 p.m. and the seated dinner and talent show at 7:30 p.m. Rob Conrad from Magic 96.5 FM and Athletic Director Robbie Lee will serve hosts.
About 40 participants will entertain attendees, according to Margaret Cochran, marketing and event director.
The event will have a special theme “but it’s a surprise,” Cochran said. “We try not to reveal it until that night.” Last year’s Dinnertainment had a movie theme.
The event is a great way for The Exceptional Foundation to highlight its efforts, according to Lee.
“What we do on a daily basis might be kind of abstract, but to see our participants performing without abandon in front of that many people, it paints a clearer picture of what we’re all about and what we are striving to do,” he said.
The show is “empowering and liberating” for the performers, Lee said. The 2017 show drew about 300 people and raised more than $170,000.
Tickets are $150 and are partially tax deductible. There are also sponsorships available. For details, including the event location, call 870-0776 or go to exceptionalfoundation.org.
