OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - Not Your Average Joe, a local nonprofit that provides meaningful employment opportunities for students and adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities in an encouraging environment, is hosting their inaugural Not Your Average Variety Show. Mark your calendar for an unforgettable evening Saturday, Feb. 1 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the iconic OKC Farmers Public Market, located at 311 S Klein Ave. The event boasts an agenda with a cocktail hour, world class barbeque, silent auction, and acts of exceptional entertainment.
The goal for the event is to have a magical night of community engagement while raising monies needed in order to provide additional job opportunities for those with special needs in Oklahoma, and beyond. NYAJ is looking to add 100 more jobs for individuals with disabilities in the coming year. The funds raised will assist in adapting Stella Nova's recently donated locations, provide specialized training for all staff members, complete funding needs for a store site in Moore, and create unique social engagement opportunities for employees with special needs. Additionally, NYAJ is working towards creating a one-of-a-kind coffee lab, which would be used to professionally train our employees as well as other coffee professionals from around the US and feature a model inclusive to those with disabilities. Nicole Rosaly, a highly trained coffee professional from Puerto Rico, recently joined our staff and has plans to bring NYAJ's coffee to the next level with her precise training and experience.
"Not Your Average Joe is experiencing exponential growth heading into 2025 with the recent acquisition of Stella Nova, the opening of ABE's in Downtown Oklahoma City, and plans to provide dozens more students and adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities in these spaces. This Variety Show is going to be an epic evening of fun, food, and fellowship as we come together to raise vital funding for these efforts and spread awareness of our important mission. We can't wait to celebrate Not Your Average Joe with you and your guests," Kelli Bruemmer, NYAJ board member and fundraiser committee member, said.
Guests can sip on drinks while Giancarlo dazzles them in the crowd. They can mingle with NYAJ's staff and learn firsthand what a difference employment makes in their lives. They can also peruse the silent auction items and make their bids. Following the cocktail hour, the Variety Show will take center stage with an incredible lineup of performers who will ensure you have a night to remember.
Matt Stansberry, a talented and captivating musician as well as the CEO of Nominee Design, will open the show with his soulful sounds, setting the perfect tone for the evening. The laughs will roll in when Michael Beers, a hilarious comedian known for his razor-sharp wit and clever humor, takes the stage to entertain all. The magic will unfold when Giancarlo Bernini, a Penn and Teller award-winning magician, performs jaw-dropping illusions that will leave you in awe. And as if that weren't enough, Daniel Buster, a trick roping expert, will dazzle the audience with his incredible precision and creativity.
The silent auction will give guests the chance to bid on exclusive, one-of-a-kind items, all while supporting a worthy cause. The auction will be available both online and in person, allowing you to join in whether you're at the event or enjoying it from home. Don't miss your chance to score incredible items while making a difference!
The evening's delicious dinner will be catered by CR Head of Head Country BBQ fame, renowned for their mouthwatering meats and sauces. Guests will enjoy a feast that includes pulled pork, sausages, boneless skinless chicken thighs, mashed potatoes, green beans, potato salad, savory baked beans, fresh rolls, pickles, and signature barbeque sauce. It's the perfect spread to enjoy while relaxing and enjoying the entertainment.
"The reason why I love working at NYAJ is because they've just been so supportive of anyone with special needs. I love helping the customers. They're nice and friendly! I love my team because we're supportive of our mission and I've learned how to make coffee and cook food. I've learned how to be supportive and how to work together as a team," Isaac Myers, a team member for nearly two years at NYAJ Midtown, said. "I'm excited about meeting new people and new supporters. I'm really excited about the auction-that's my favorite part is to win something cool at the auction! I'm also looking forward to all the entertainment, especially the magician. I hope everyone comes out and supports us."
This is the event of the year, a night of entertainment, food, and philanthropy that you won't want to miss. Tickets are available now, so don't wait—secure your spot today for an evening that promises to be as memorable as it is meaningful.
For more details about tickets, the silent auction, and other event information, click the button below!