Comedy Night has been held annually since 2006, when the original “Just Desserts & Laughter” was rebranded and expanded to include dinner. According to Dixon Family Services Executive Director Cookie Powell (center), the event had many first-time attendees and everyone seemed to have a great time. Photo courtesy of Dixon Family Services

DIXON, CA (MPG) - More than 100 attendees at the Dixon Family Services’ annual Comedy Night at Olde Vet’s Hall on Sept. 27 helped raise an estimated $20,000 to support the nonprofit organization’s programs for local families in need.

Guests began arriving at 6 p.m. to enjoy a no-host bar, raffle opportunities and the event’s laidback, communal atmosphere. Comedy Night, since its inception in 2006, has become a signature fundraiser for Dixon Family Services (DFS). Dinner was served at 7 p.m., featuring a Mexican menu of Chili Colorado, rice, beans, chips and salsa, catered by Bud’s Pub & Grill. Employees of Kaiser Permanente, an event sponsor, volunteered to serve dinner. Dessert followed, with an auction immediately after.

More than 100 attendees at the Dixon Family Services’ annual Comedy Night at Olde Vet’s Hall on Sept. 27 helped raise an estimated $20,000 to support the nonprofit organization’s programs for local families in need. Dinner was catered by Bud’s Pub and Grill and served by volunteers from Kaiser Permanente. Photo courtesy of Dixon Family Services

Comedian and emcee David Studebaker returned for the second year to perform a 45-minute set. According to Dixon Family Services’ Executive Director Cookie Powell, Studebaker kept the crowd laughing throughout the event.

In addition to his comedy performance, Studebaker served as the auctioneer for the dessert auction, announced raffle winners and rang the dinner bell.

“David stood out to me for several reasons,” said Powell. “He is very engaging with the crowds and he is experienced in being an emcee, so he gives us more than just a comedy act.  His comedy is spontaneous, clean and non-controversial. This is what our audience prefers. He makes even the raffles and auctions fun, which is important at a fundraising event.”

Comedian and emcee David Studebaker returned for the second year, performing a 45-minute set. In addition to his comedy performance, Studebaker served as the auctioneer for the dessert auction, announced raffle winners and rang the dinner bell. Photo courtesy of Dixon Family Services

Comedy Night has been held annually since 2006, when the original “Just Desserts & Laughter” was rebranded and expanded to include dinner. Like many organizations in Dixon, the event had to be put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Powell, this year’s event drew 101 attendees.

“It’s our one big fundraising event of the year,” Powell said. “We don’t receive any local, state or federal funding. All proceeds help cover program costs, operating expenses and special efforts like our holiday food program. DFS depends on several foundation grants that I apply for each year and the generosity of this community.”

Funds raised will directly support the organization’s services for low-income families, including referrals to other agencies, basic needs assistance and programs to ensure that children are safe and thriving.

Raffle prizes were donated by more than 40 local businesses and individuals, including Superior Farms, Dixon Family Chiropractic, Grocery Outlet, Dixon Florist, Cattlemen’s Dixon and several individual community members.

This year’s sponsors included Kaiser Permanente, KUIU, Travis Credit Union, Dupratt Ford Dixon, Altec Industries and several individual donors.

Volunteers played a key role in making the event possible, handling logistics ranging from food service to prize coordination. Among the many helpers were Patty Richards, Amanda Tafoya, Sondria Jackson, Aly Kelly and Joseph Garewal.

Powell acknowledged the growing number of first-time attendees and said Comedy Night remains a community favorite.

“We are always delighted to see new faces,” said Powell. “It means our message is spreading and more people are joining our mission.”

Planning for Comedy Night 2026 will begin in January and Dixon Family Services is seeking new volunteers to help organize the event. Powell encourages community members interested in participating to call her at 707-678-0442 or email her at [email protected].

“If you know someone in need or if you want to help, we’re here,” Powell said. “It’s about supporting one another in our own community.”