''YOUR COUCH CALLED AND SAID IT NEEDS A NIGHT OFF!''

We can help! Tickets are on sale now for Sojourn Shelter & Services' 7^th annual "Stand-Up for Sojourn!" comedy event fundraiser on Friday, October 16 at Pole barn Chic Events, 4491 Old Chatham Rd., Springfield. Doors open at 6:30 pm. 

This year's comedian is St. Louis-based Arvin Mitchell, who performed locally before expanding to national and international stages. He was a runner‑up on BET’s Coming to the Stage and co‑hosted Club Comic View with J. Anthony Brown. Mitchell’s comedic style blends impressions, storytelling, and physical humor. He has appeared on Kevin Hart’s One Mic Stand, Tony Rock’s The Funny Spot, and in two Dry Bar Comedy specials. He has also toured colleges, clubs, cruise ships, and military bases. Hosts for the evening will be Chris Kattan, former headliner on Saturday Night Live, now national touring comedian and Maria Libri, actress and The Maria Libri Show podcaster.

Here are five strong reasons you should attend:

1. You deserve a night out.
   Good comedy, good company, and an excuse to forget about work and everyday life for a few hours.
2. You’ll laugh—and your ticket actually matters.
   The money raised helps Sojourn provide services and support to people affected by domestic violence right here in our communities.
3. It’s more fun with friends.
   Grab your spouse, coworkers, neighbors, or that friend who desperately needs to get out of the house. Make it a group night out.
4. It’s not your typical fundraiser.
   No long speeches. No rubber-chicken banquet. It’s a genuine comedy show that happens to support a great cause.
5. You can have a great time while doing something good.
   Sometimes supporting your community really can be as simple as showing up, laughing, and enjoying yourself.