The Montague-Whitehall Rotary Club’s “Night on the Town” fundraiser is set to bring the White Lake community together on February 15 for an evening of entertainment, food, and giving back. This event serves as a cornerstone of the Rotary Club’s efforts to fund local and international service projects, making a lasting impact.
Why Is This Event So Important?
“Since the Rotary Club is a non-profit organization, we rely on fundraisers and donations to help fund our local and international service projects, high school scholarships, as well as our International Exchange Program,” explained Clarissa Moon, a representative of the Montague-Whitehall Rotary Club. “Night on the Town is our largest fundraiser and allows us to make a larger impact in the White Lake community.”
Moon also highlighted the event’s global impact, particularly through Rotary International’s efforts to eradicate polio. “Through our partnership with Polio Plus, we are helping to fund vaccinations to be administered in areas of large outbreaks and poverty-stricken countries,” she said. “We also fund water wells in countries where clean water is scarce and provide education in the maintenance of these wells. Clean water is essential because we know polio thrives in contaminated water sources.”
Supporting Local Projects
Each year, the Rotary Club President selects a service project to benefit from event proceeds. “Our current president, Esther Baldridge, is working on finalizing her decision,” Moon explained. “In the past, the Rotary Club has completed projects such as building the Montague bandshell, an ice rink warming shelter, a bench at the splash pad in Whitehall, an outdoor fireplace at the Whitehall promenade, and most recently, the kiosk at the Duck Creek Nature Preserve. The Montague-Whitehall Rotary Club looks to choose projects that will benefit every individual in our community.”
How Has the Event Evolved?
“This event continues to grow as the years go by,” Moon noted. “Unfortunately, much like other organizations, COVID took a toll on our event, and we are working to rebuild it to what it was prior to the pandemic. Through community support and engagement, I have no doubt we will make a comeback and be able to do more good in the community.”
Highlights of This Year’s Event
One of the evening’s main attractions is the performance by the Westside Soul Surfers, a local favorite known for their lively and entertaining shows. “The Westside Soul Surfers are a fan favorite every year during the summer concert series at the bandshell,” Moon shared. “The Montague-Whitehall Rotary is also the sponsor of their concert during this series; therefore, it felt right to tie them into one of our events. They have no doubt they will surely bring in a crowd.”
Attendees can also look forward to a silent auction featuring items donated by local businesses. “Local communities throughout the White Lake area have donated items ranging from gift cards to BBQ grills. There is something for everyone no matter their interest,” said Moon. “We also have some great live auction items, including round-trip airfare to Chicago with a hotel stay.”
How Can the Community Support?
For those unable to attend, there are still ways to contribute. “We are selling raffle-only tickets for $25 each for a chance to win one of seven cash prizes, with the top prize being $1,000 cash,” Moon explained. “If an individual would rather make a donation, they can drop off a check at any Shelby State Bank branch or mail it to the Montague-Whitehall Rotary at PO Box 102, Whitehall, MI 49461.”
Aligning with Rotary’s Mission
The event also reflects Rotary’s mission of giving back by supporting local businesses. “From our ticket printing to catering, we have chosen local small businesses to support,” said Moon. “This allows us to promote their services within the community and help sustain them for years to come.”
Why Attend?
For those considering attending for the first time, Moon encourages you to join in on the fun. “Prepare yourself for a great time of food, entertainment, and fun,” she said. “Each member of the Montague-Whitehall Rotary will welcome you with a smile and thank you for the contributions you are making to help us fulfill our mission and commitments to the community. Through your contributions, we strive to make White Lake a better place to live.”
Moon also invited anyone interested in learning more about Rotary to attend their Tuesday meetings at the Whitehall VAC from 12:15–1:30 PM. “We will feed you lunch, network, and show you the great plans we have for our club and the community we serve.”
Event Details:
Join the Montague-Whitehall Rotary Club for an unforgettable night that combines fun, music, and making a difference. Together, let’s support our community and beyond!
Check out the full press release for more details about this exciting event here.
