Comedy fundraiser benefits cancer efforts




Merv Kopp

Merv Kopp


More than 200 people attended “Stand Up for Cancer Survivors, a FUNdraiser to benefit The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura,” held Sept. 14 at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza’s Scherr Forum. The event raised more than $8,500.

Merv Kopp, a three-year cancer survivor and event organizer, was invited to speak about his experiences at a recent meeting of the board of directors of The Wellness Community.

“I was pleased to be recognized by the board and I greatly appreciate all of their positive comments after my talk,” said Kopp.

Kopp came up with the idea of the event while attending the inaugural Livestrong Summit of the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Attendees were challenged to return home and make a difference for cancer survivors in their community.

With the help of the staff and volunteers of The Wellness Community, Kopp organized and produced the fundraiser. Mike Lacey, owner of the Comedy and Magic Club of Hermosa Beach, arranged for two professional comedians, Tom Papa and Ralph Harris, to perform for the benefit.

“The board of directors is very grateful to Merv for the endless hours he put into making this event happen,” said board member Ken Kossoff. “We know from Merv’s work as a long-standing member and past president of the Rotary Club of Thousand Oaks that when Merv is dedicated to a cause, he is going to make things happen, and people in the community will benefit as a result.”

The funds raised will go toward a monthly comedy night for cancer survivors and caregivers beginning next year at The Wellness Community.

The Wellness Community is an international nonprofit organization that provides free support and education to people with cancer and their loved ones. The local chapter serves more than 2,000 community members affected by cancer each year. For more information, call (805) 379-4777 or visit www.TwcVv.org.

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