GARDNER, MA – As New Englanders, we know it’s not uncommon for events to be canceled due to snow. Yet as Minus 22 founder Dave Gambone was about to learn, not even a surprise storm could slow supporters of the annual Minus 22 comedy show.
Using laughter as medicine to raise awareness & funds to support military families tragically impacted by suicide, performances by comedians Dale Cover, AJ Hapenny and Jim McCue pulled together a community thanks to host Jake Hawkins.
“There’s no more noble cause in my opinion than supporting our veterans and people who have sacrificed or potentially sacrifice so much for our country,” says Hawkins, whose uncle was one of the first members of the UVT Navy dive team. “It’s a shame that throughout the years, a lot of them have felt discarded. This foundation, it really represents the best of the people of America and how we handle things. Come together.”
That sense of community was contagious as laughter, music and freshly made food by a local chef filled the room. “Make sure people can pay their hard earned money to come out here and do something fun, enjoy it and also support a good cause.”
What’s the vibe: Come as you are for casual comedy, leave with an unwavering sense of support (and probably a new friend or two) after a great meal and exceptional entertainment.
After losing five loved ones to military suicide in 2019 and seeing the direct impact on those closest to them, Gambone knew he had to take action. Today, the Minus 22 Foundation crafts care package sponsorships for families impacted by military suicide to provide up to 12 months of support, college scholarship investment opportunities, and assistance during times of crisis.
“Mental health is something that really affects every single one of us, as we continue our own personal journeys in our lives it’s more important to kinda delve deep into those things, see what makes us tick and see what really bothers us. If we can’t have these conversations, then unfortunately we’re gonna see these numbers get worse.”
As supporters closed out the evening with full stomachs from fresh entrees, hearts from a night of comedy and arms with auction prizes – host Jake Hawkins made sure they also took a sense of solidarity. “Hopefully they know that there are people out there that care about them wether they are a veteran of the United States Military or not,” he explains. “There are people that are genuine, 100% behind them. It’s not an easy thing to talk about, mental health in this country and taking care of yourself and taking care of people that you love but this foundation takes a step forward in the right direction doing that.”
To learn more about The Minus 22 Foundation, visit their website.
To see more stories like this or if you have an event you’d like to pitch to Emmalyn to cover, email emmalyn@emmalynreid.com.
Emmalyn Reid 