WEST RUTLAND — When the organizers of a local fundraising variety show came up with the idea four years ago to host the event, they never intended it to become an annual event.

Coordinator Olivia Gawet said the West Rutland Variety Show started in 2010 in response to earthquakes in Haiti and Japan. Last year, the show helped to construct a community well in Uganda.

“It grew out of a need that we saw,” Gawet said. “This year, it is nice to do something that is local.”

In the event’s fourth year, all funds raised will go to Dismas House in Rutland. The organization helps former prisoners integrate with society.

The variety show is set for 3 p.m. Sunday at the West Rutland Town Hall.

When organizers were deciding which cause or organization to help this year, Gawet immediately thought of Dismas. She described the organization as one that does so much for people, yet has very little recognition.

“I kept thinking we should do something right in our local community to remember that there is a great need in our own community,” she said. “(Dismas House) is there and the work is so important. Many people don’t know it even exists.”

Gawet said the variety show provides an opportunity to educate the community about the work Dismas does for men and women who have left prison without a support system.

At this year’s event, Terry Jaye of WJJR will be master of ceremonies, as he has been every year. Nineteen acts include a short comedy show, a girl who performs with a Hula Hoop to music, the Mount St. Joseph choir, the Good
Shepherd Lutheran Church choir and many more.

“It’s a lot of different things,” Gawet said. “It’s fun.”

Tickets cost $8 for adults and $5 for children and seniors, with a $20 cap for families. They can be purchased at the door.

lucia.suarez@rutlandherald.com