A Decade of Laughter with Purpose: Celebrating the 10th Annual Comedy for Camp & S’more

For 10 years, one night has stood out on the community calendar as an evening where laughter, connection and purpose come together. The 10th Annual Comedy for Camp & S’more, hosted by the Soroptimist Club, is more than a comedy show - it’s a celebration of community, compassion and creative giving.

At the heart of the event are Amanda Mitchell and Courtney Barnard, Comedy for Camp & S’more event co-chairs, whose leadership and passion help guide the evening each year.  

The event began as a fresh idea to raise funds in a way that felt fun, casual and different from the traditional galas and benefit dinners.  

“Comedy for Camp began as a way for our club members to fundraise in a fresh, fun way. At the time, comedy shows were rare in the area, and we wanted an event that was casual, engaging and different from a typical fundraiser,” Courtney shares. “The goal was simple: bring the community together for a night of laughter while supporting a great cause. Ten years later, what started as an idea to shake things up has grown into a beloved tradition that the community looks forward to each year.”

The impact of the event extends far beyond the evening itself. Amanda explains that it helps send local foster children to Camp Soroptimist, a week-long summer camp where kids can build confidence, create lasting memories and simply be themselves. For many, it’s an experience they might not otherwise have had. But the event also fuels other Soroptimist programs that empower women and girls.  

“Our Live Your Dream Awards provide education grants to help women achieve independence, and Dream It, Be It mentors high school girls to pursue their goals with confidence. In one joyful evening of laughter, the community comes together to create opportunities that truly transform lives,” Amanda says.

What makes Comedy for Camp & S’more different from other local events is its combination of fun and purpose. Guests enjoy clean, engaging comedy while knowing their participation directly supports programs that uplift youth and women in the community. The evening demonstrates that meaningful impact doesn’t have to be formal or serious - fundraising can be entertaining, approachable and deeply rewarding.

For first-time attendees, the experience begins the moment they arrive at the Cornell Complex. The evening opens at 6:30 p.m. with a social hour featuring live music from Chris Bassett, a silent auction, a blind gift card drawing, and the opportunity to purchase a Golden Ticket for a chance to win an ultimate beach getaway to Hawaii, Cancun, Spain or Bali. The social hour is lively and welcoming, setting the tone for a night full of laughter and connection.

The comedy portion begins at 7:30 p.m., opening with Jody Fuller, a father, writer, speaker and U.S. Army veteran whose humor blends life experience, heart and Southern charm. Headliner Kevin Farley, a comedian and actor with more than three decades of experience, including over 100 film and television appearances, from “Curb Your Enthusiasm” to “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” brings his signature comedic style to the stage. Farley has toured nationally as a stand-up headliner for the past 11 years, and his performance rounds out a memorable night for the audience. Live auctions add excitement, making the evening entertaining and interactive.  

As Amanda describes, “Add in an exciting live auction, and the night is complete - a true community experience full of laughter, connection and support for a meaningful cause.”

Behind the scenes, the event relies on the dedication and teamwork of Soroptimist Club members and volunteers. Each year, they see firsthand how one evening of laughter can create real change; helping foster children experience the joy and belonging of camp and supporting women as they pursue their goals. Volunteers, businesses and entertainers all contribute to the success of the evening, creating a sense of community that extends far beyond the show.  

“For our members and volunteers, organizing Comedy for Camp & S’more is a reminder of why we serve,” Amanda says.

The event is also powered by the generosity of local businesses and community partners. Courtney highlights the collaboration that makes the night possible: “Comedy for Camp & S’more wouldn’t be possible without our community partners. Local businesses step up as sponsors, donate items and help spread the word, while talented performers share their time and skills to support the cause. Volunteers, businesses and entertainers all come together to create an evening that’s entertaining, meaningful and community-driven.”

Celebrating a decade of success, the co-chairs hope the event continues to grow while maintaining what makes it special: a fun, welcoming night that supports important causes.  

“For the Soroptimist Club, our goal is to remain a strong, positive presence in the community, building partnerships, supporting youth and women, and finding creative ways to give back. Comedy for Camp & S’more is a perfect example of that mission in action, and we’re excited to see what the next 10 years bring,” Courtney says.

The event would not be possible without sponsors who help turn laughter into lasting impact. Amanda notes the support of Headliner Sponsor Joplin Plaza Apartments and Feature Sponsors Freeman Health System and Ozark Center, emphasizing how crucial their contributions are to helping children and families in the community benefit from the programs supported by the event.

Tickets for the 10th Annual Comedy for Camp & S’more are available at givebutter.com/comedyforcamp10, inviting the community to join an evening that proves laughter can do far more than entertain - it can create meaningful change.