MRCC "Caring with Karaoke" Event Benefits Area Children in Need

Drop the mic! Musical talent and charitable fundraising shared the spotlight at the 13th Annual Caring with Karaoke event recently hosted by the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce (MRCC) Young Professionals Group. The entertaining event was held at the legendary Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ, attended by an enthusiastic crowd of contestants, fans, and MRCC members. Participants in the karaoke contest vied for prizes as they showcased their talent for celebrity judges Vito Cardinale, Albie Manzo, and Peter Swain. In addition to the spirited karaoke contest, the evening also included open karaoke, raffle baskets, a light buffet, and drinks.

Each year, the Caring with Karaoke event also lends support to a local charity. This year’s benefit raised funds for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children of Monmouth County, a network of 951 community-based programs that recruit, train, and support citizen volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in courtrooms and communities. The organization was presented with a donation check in November.

MRCC Young Professionals co-chair Kathrine Dwyer proudly stated, “At our November 5 MRCC networking breakfast meeting, together with my co-chair Jeremy Faberlle, MRCC President Tamer Gouda, and Executive Director Terese Rölke, I had the privilege of presenting CASA of Monmouth County with a donation of $6,500. Proceeds from the event will be used to expand CASA services to train at least 18-28 new volunteers who will serve at least 25-35 never-before-served children. The funds were donated by proceeds collected at our September 30 event at the Stone Pony. Thank you to our generous sponsors for donating, the community for supporting, and our members for attending this fabulous evening! Stay tuned for more events from the Young Professionals of Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce.”

The successful evening was made possible, in large part, through the support of Gold Sponsors New Jersey Natural Gas, Parents Never Give Up, Paul Mark Printing, The Stone Pony, and Kahwaty Joe DJ Entertainers; Ruby Sponsors Kathrine Dwyer and Allstate, Jersey Shore BlueClaws, BCB Bank, CentraState Healthcare System, Edelman Financial Engines, Investors Bank, John Calabrese – Ameriprise Financial, and Prendergast Landscape Contractors, Inc.; Emerald Sponsors Cg Tax, Audit, & Advisory, CMIT Solutions, iPlay America, Mazza Recycling, and Team Montani Crosscountry Mortgage; Food Sponsors McLoone’s Restaurants, Metropolitan Café, Tuscany, Bubbakoo’s Burritos, Kunya Siam Thai Restaurant, and Business Enhancement Services + Training.

About the Young Professionals Group of the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce

The Young Professionals Group is a committee of the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce comprised of dedicated, energetic, and involved individuals aged 40 and under who support the chamber and Monmouth County. In addition to hosting Caring with Karaoke to benefit local charities, the committee also plans chamber networking events and educational events for professional development and leadership.

The Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, volunteer organization whose mission is to promote business, enhance economic development, and serve as a catalyst for improving the overall quality of life in our communities. Its vision is to provide opportunities for business growth and prosperity, offer quality service to members, serve as a resource leader for business and the community, and represent the voice of business on a regional level. For more information about the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce and upcoming events, visit www.monmouthregionalchamber.com.