Heart-A-Rama has surpassed the $3-million mark in fundraising in its 50th year.
Heart-A-Rama Producer, Jim Pautz, said though it took a couple of extra years due to COVID postponements, this spring’s rendition of “Heart-A-Rama Strikes Gold” raised $106,400 for the American Heart Association.
Ten thousand dollars of that amount remains in Manitowoc County to purchase AEDs for organizations in need.
Heart-A-Rama had humble beginnings in 1971 when show organizers generated $1,367.96 after a two-night run.
The volunteer effort would reach the $1 million mark in the year 2000, $2 million in 2009, and now they’re celebrating $3 million.
Pautz says special thanks go to those patrons and businesses who bought tickets and advertising for the 2020 show, which had to be postponed because of COVID, and donated those purchases, along with buying show tickets for 2022 at the Hamilton Community House.
Heart-A-Rama also raised thousands of dollars on the “Best Seat in the House” auction.
Pautz expressed thanks to the countless volunteers who work on the stage, in the band, in sales and in background roles, adding in part “that’s why the organization has thrived for 50 years.”
