Make Big Change earns $24K at fundraiser

Martinis for Melanoma, the April 9 fundraiser to benefit Make Big Change, brought in $24,565 for the nonprofit dedicated to reducing skin cancers across the state of New Hampshire.

Tickets went toward good food, drink and camaraderie at the Hellenic Center in Dover. Guests also entered raffles for great prizes and took part in a live auction with items ranging from a football signed by New England Patriot Rob Gronkowski to a stand up paddle board.

Master of ceremonies for the event was multimedia superstar John Herman. Attendees could also donate money to spin the Make Big Change wheel for a prize and to have their photo taken with special guest Mrs. New Hampshire USA 2014 Tonya Knightly.

A full dinner from Cartelli’s Catering was eagerly plated underneath the elegant Make Big Change ice sculpture in the center of the room.

“We’re ecstatic following our first public fundraising effort,” said founding board member Christopher Hislop. “Martinis for Melanoma was a fantastic event and we’re humbled by the community’s support. Many thanks to all that contributed. Together we’re making big change!”

Make Big Change has several initiatives they wish to complete this year. One of the primary goals is to obtain specialty sunscreen-dispensing devices. The first two installations of these devices will take place at Eastern Propane and Dover Chevrolet and Dover Honda.

Make Big Change, in conjunction with Dermatology & Skin Health, wishes to thank its sponsors, including Allergan; Boldwerks; Cartelli’s Catering; Defense Manufacturers * Dennis Ciotti; DLC Painting & Seavey Carpentry * Russ Norton * Jim Seavey; Dover Chevrolet & Dover Honda; Eastern Propane & Oil; Event Lighting Concepts; Federal Savings Bank; Fortier & Son., Inc.; Hampshire Fire Protection Co., Inc.; Horizon Beverage; Polychronis Financial Services; and WXGR 103.5 FM.

For information about Make Big Change, visit www.makebigchange.org.