Fundraiser Will Benefit New Montclair ‘Emergency Relief’ Group

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of Montclair Story Salon. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

Montclair Story Salon proudly presents “Lifted!”, a special fundraising event for Montclair Helps, a new grassroots organization delivering fast, compassionate emergency relief through partnerships with local nonprofits. Join us on Wednesday, May 21 at Union Congregation Church (167 Cooper Ave, Montclair) for an unforgettable night of stories, live music, and art that will raise spirits and vital funds for neighbors in need.

Light refreshments begin at 6:30 PM, and the show runs from 7 to 9 PM. Guests are encouraged to arrive early for a surprise musical guest performance before the show officially begins!

Food is graciously sponsored by Marcel’s Bakery and Kitchen.

Featured Lineup

Storytellers:

• Craig Baldo – A sharp and witty writer and standup comedian with national credits.
• Eileen Kelly – Writer, standup comic, and podcast host known for her warm, offbeat humor.
• Patience Moore – A licensed therapist and writer whose work bridges insight and emotion.
• Rasheed Daniel – Showrunner, TV producer, and comedian with an eye for story and heart.
• Rachel Brooks – Jury Manager at Essex County Superior Court with a powerful personal story to tell.

Music:

The Bard Band – A creative fusion group performing original music using the poetic lyrics of Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, E.E. Cummings, and more. Their unique blend of literature and music will stir the soul.

Live Art:

Fernando Mariscal – An award-winning visual artist known for his expressive and engaging style. He will be creating a live piece during the event, which will be auctioned to support Montclair Helps. We will also have a few of Fernando’s pieces available for the silent auction.

Host & MC:

Liz Samuel – Creator and producer of Montclair Story Salon, guiding the evening with warmth, humor, and heart.

“I’ve been to several Montclair Story Salon events and I am so grateful that Liz has selected Montclair Helps as the beneficiary of what is sure to be an amazing evening. The talent, venue, and theme are all inspiring and beautiful. Our sponsors are all super excited and very special, big-hearted people.”

— Ray Graj, Co-founder, Montclair Helps

“Montclair Helps is about helping people in crisis, but it's also about community. About friends working together, friends supporting each other, people showing up to be together in community. It's hard to put into words the feeling one gets when you're part of something this unique. I just want as many people as possible to experience it.”

— Ray Graj

Ticket Info

• $45 in advance
• $55 at the door
• $75 VIP tickets (includes premium seating and a special gift bag) 🎟 Purchase tickets by scanning the QR code on the flyer or visiting www.montclairhelps.org Seating is limited—early purchase highly recommended!

Thanks to Our Sponsors

This event is generously supported by:

✅ Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey

✅ Vault Fitness

About Montclair Story Salon

Montclair Story Salon celebrates storytelling in all its forms—through performance, music, and visual art. The salon hosts dynamic events that foster connection, creativity, and community in Montclair. You can follow Montclair Story Salon on Instagram @montclairstorysalon

About Montclair Helps

Montclair Helps is a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to responding swiftly to community members in crisis. By working with local nonprofits and neighbors, Montclair Helps ensures no one has to face hardship alone.

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