Annual FRIENDS Variety Show Supports Critical Programming

By Missy Ruzicka

Looking for a groovy night on the town?

Look no further than FRIENDS’ “We Got the Funk!” Variety Show! Get your groove on at the Broomfield Auditorium on October 29 at 2:00 p.m., where the FRIENDS participants will go back to the 70s to some funk-tastic beats.

The annual FRIENDS event has changed a lot since it started in 2006. That first year there were only five performers, with some volunteers, and a few local entertainers. This year they celebrate their 18th annual show with many excited FRIENDS sharing their talents with soulful ballads and high energy dance anthems. It is sure to be a night to remember.

FRIENDS of Broomfield is dedicated to enhancing the Broomfield community by creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental delays through an innovative and person-centered approach. The annual variety show is just one way that the organization raises funds to support its core programs. The non-profit supports 200+ adults in our community with a variety of day programs, residential programs, and social and travel opportunities. FRIENDS’ Supported Employment program helps participants find a job they enjoy, supports them through the hiring process and helps them be successful at the role, helping them gain independence, security, and self-confidence.

Over the years this fun fundraiser has put on many fantastic shows like the Michael Jackson Tribute, The Beatles, and the crowd favorite The Greatest Showman, with the beloved song “This is Me!” This year they will have the ‘Far Out’ Broomfield Auditorium buzzing with iconic hits from the Bee Gees, ABBA, Donna Summers and other legendary artists who made the 70s such an off the hook decade.

The disco filled night would not be possible without the generous community members who graciously sponsor not only this event but many other FRIENDs events. The Faithful FRIEND sponsor this year is the Blue Federal Credit Union, joined by Fabulous FRIEND sponsors; Viega, Ramos Law, FS Advisors, Our Broomfield Magazine, and Front Range Roofing. Many thanks to these companies and many more who continue to support the amazing work that the FRIENDS of Broomfield does every day. Registration for tickets and sponsorship information can be found on the FRIENDS of Broomfield website; https://www. friendsofbroomfield.org/variety-show-registration

Attendees of this summer’s FRIENDS Luncheon and Fashion show were treated to a little sneak peek of this year’s variety show and if “We Got the Funk” is anything like that banger of a ballad that got a well-deserved standing ovation then this year’s show is going to be off the hook. You can feel the excitement building as the showtime draws near and every rehearsal is a fun time for the volunteers and participants alike. So grab your bell bottoms and big collared shirts for a nifty afternoon filled with shining disco balls, funky tunes, and even brighter stars under the spotlight at the 18th Annual FRIENDS of Broomfield Variety Show ‘We Got the FUNK!”