Student hosts comedy show to fundraise for hurricane relief

With the help of five Los Angelesbased comedians, Riley Flynn, a senior at West Ranch High School, raised more than $4,000 to support hurricane relief throughout the United States.

On Friday Flynn hosted “Humor2Heal,” a comedy fundraiser and silent auction at Global Prep Academy that donated 100 percent of its proceeds to Comic Relief which handles funds for Hand in Hand, a charity that supports hurricane relief efforts throughout the U.S.

“The turnout was amazing,” Flynn said. “The show sold out with over 100 people showing up and we raised a total of $4,272 for Hand in Hand.”

Performers at the event included

comedians Jimmy Dore, Mike Burton, Bill Dwyer, Dennis Reagan and Flynn’s father Jackie Flynn.

“My dad is a stand-up comedian so he called four of his buddies and asked if they could help me out at this event for free,” she said. “I was so fortunate that they all donated their time and talent for this cause.” Flynn began planning the event after seeing the destruction and aftermath of the recent hurricanes. Immediately she start reached out to local companies and business with fellow student Monai Chanon seeking donations for the event.

“The planning for this event was a lot of work,” Flynn said. “The hardest part was probably going to different businesses and restaurants and trying to get donations but most places were more than generous.”

However, the hard work paid off Friday when Flynn saw how much her work and dedication paid off.

“I’m so happy that this show was a success and I was able to help those affected by the hurricanes in a small way. It was so fulfilling accomplishing this and I’d love to put on another one down the road.