“The pulse of any city can be measured by its philanthropic commitment to empowering the less fortunate.” — Lawrence Funderburke
Despite falling short of our goal of raising $250,000, the 2023 LFYO Fundraising Luncheon was a tremendous success. We secured just over $150,000 in financial support. A beautiful, sunny afternoon placed attendees in the perfect mood for great food. The atmosphere and ambiance at Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, the downtown location, were spectacular. Kudos to the general manager, Ryan Reidel, and his staff for their amazing service. The capacity crowd included celebrity athletes (past and present), business luminaries, and most notably, Central Ohioans who care deeply about our non-profit organization’s mission to change lives and transform legacies.
Silent Auction
The first hour consisted of networking, delectable hors d’oeuvres, and generous bidding on 10 exclusive, auction-item packages (with the Chef’s Dinner for 8 generating the highest bid). As you can see, excitement was buzzing in the air before the start of the program! In the second hour, a delicious three-course meal was served, including a caesar salad, trio lunch platter (3 ounce petite cut filet, 4 ounces of salmon, 3 ounces of lemon caper chicken, roasted garlic whipped potatoes, and sautéed asparagus), and a dessert duo (mini cheesecake and a mini flourless chocolate torte). Past LFYO participants reflected on their heartwarming experiences, followed by thought-provoking insights from Chris Scott (Toy Barn General Manager), Ted Murdaugh (GoodLife Foundation Executive Director), Clark Kellogg (CBS Basketball Analyst), and Gene Smith (OSU Athletic Director). In short, each speaker reiterated a common theme: difference-makers make the difference in their own unique way. At their companies. With their colleagues. In their communities.
Photos by Gracie Becker
Fundraising Luncheon Supporters
My wife (Monya) and I want to recognize the following companies, families, and individuals who supported the 2023 LFYO Fundraising Luncheon …
Legacy Sponsor ($50,000)
Maggie & Tom Fleming
Hall of Fame Sponsor ($10,000)
The Robert Weiler Company
All-Star Sponsors ($5,000)
Monya & Lawrence Funderburke
Terri & Gary Schottenstein & Family
Huntington Bank
Carol & Randy Ayers
Daniel Levitt
Rebecca & Brandon McAllister
Lindsey & Jacob Osborn
Linda & Roger Blackwell
Michelle Moore & David Houze
Advanced Civil Design
Superstar Sponsors ($2,500)
First Merchants Bank
Muskingum County Community Foundation
Jim Frey Real Estate Advisor, LLC
Thompson Concrete
Rich Russo Realty
Uckele Nutrition
Abby & Andrew Crum
Toy Barn
Celebrity Guests
Gene Smith
Clark Kellogg
Mike Doss
Dee Miller
Obie Stillwell
Lenzelle Smith Jr.
Zed Key
Guest Speakers
Gene Smith
Clark Kellogg
Ted Murdaugh
Chris Scott
Joshua Watkins
James Watkins
Aaron Bell
LFYO Fundraising Luncheon Helpers
Jeannie Mok
Melanie Ayers
Adam Roslovic
Antonio Combs
Julian Slate
Jamil Cassimy
Security
Detective Anthony Johnson
Program Brochure
Video and Photography
Lawrence, you are a good man. Thank you and your wife for the wonderful lunch. Your presenters were on point with very important and timely things to say. Bless all of you for doing what you do. Seeing those young men that are going through your program was touching. I pray that they have the perseverance to make it through their journey so they too can pass on the greatness of life to their kids and others around them. God bless you Lawrence. Joe
Monya and Lawrence, outstanding job in facilitating the LFYO Fundraising Luncheon! Our firm, Advanced Civil Design, feel incredibly honored as a sponsor of the event. Many influential people were in the room, and Lawrence encouraged several of his past program participants to network with some of Central Ohio’s most recognizable business leaders. The luncheon was an inspiration for all involved.Tom Warner, Managing Partner Advanced Civil Design
Congratulations on a truly spectacular event to raise money and awareness for the great work LFYO is doing in Central Ohio and beyond. LFYO is leading the way, making a positive impact in the lives of young people. First Merchants Bank is grateful for the partnership opportunity as a sponsor and contributor to LFYO’s success. Jennifer Griffith, Regional President First Merchants Bank
What an incredible fundraising event. LFYO does exceptional work for youth in the community. We were honored to support a terrific cause. We learned about the organization’s impact while listening to the lineup of celebrity guest speakers. This was a first-class event in every way, and we look forward to supporting LFYO in the future! Rebecca and Brandon McAllister, Legacy-Minded Philanthropists