Concert for a Cause 2026 Raises Over $24,000 for Scholarships and Expanded MRI Access
The 2026 Concert for a Cause: Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos event, held at Southeastern Illinois College’s Deaton Gymnasium and co-hosted with Ferrell Hospital, was once again a tremendous success, raising over $24,000 to support SIC student scholarships and expanded MRI access at Ferrell Hospital.
Featuring the dynamic talents of the world-famous Howl at the Moon musicians, the event welcomed 316 attendees for an evening of audience requests, laughter and nonstop entertainment. Financial support was generated through sponsorships, ticket sales, donations, a silent auction, the Balloon Pop, the Heads-or-Tails game and specialty drink contributions.
Sponsorships played a vital role in the event’s success, with All in One Real Estate serving as the premier “On Top of the World” sponsor. Align Wealth Management joined as the “Hungry Like the Wolf” Dinner Sponsor, and J&M Realty served as the “Stayin’ Alive” sponsor.
“Good Vibrations” sponsors included Banterra Bank; Craig Williams for Sheriff; Ironworkers Local 103; Kade Street (mckadedubs on Whatnot); Legence Bank; Saline County Sheriff Whipper Johnson; and Shirts for Vets. “All-Star” sponsors included ARTSCO and the Eldorado and Harrisburg Rotary Clubs. The Balloon Pop was sponsored by Henderson Home Inspection.
“Events like this show the strength of our community,” said Dr. Karen Weiss, SIC President. “Because of the generosity of our sponsors and guests, more students will have access to scholarships at SIC while Ferrell Hospital continues expanding important health services for our region. Partnerships like this make a real difference for our communities.”
The evening began with dinner prepared by SIC Falcon Bistro Chef Michael Intravaia, paired with cheesecakes generously donated by Maple Street Café at Ferrell Hospital. Morello’s Restaurant provided cash beverage services and pledged a portion of specialty drink sales to the fundraiser.
The silent auction featured a wide variety of items donated by local businesses and individuals, helping increase the event’s overall impact.
Proceeds from the 2026 event will directly benefit both organizations. Funds designated for Ferrell Hospital will support expanded MRI access through the addition of a covered canopy to better protect and accommodate patients during imaging services. SIC’s proceeds will strengthen the endowment for student scholarships and support programs.
“We loved seeing the community come together for Dueling Pianos on Feb. 14,” said Ferrell Hospital CEO, Rachael Prather. “Partnering with Southeastern Illinois College made this event even more special, and we’re grateful for the continued support and enthusiasm from everyone who attended.”
Additional donation opportunities are available online. To support SIC scholarships and programs, visit sic.edu/give or email giving@sic.edu. To support Ferrell Hospital and the Ferrell Foundation, visit ferrellhospital.org/for-you/ferrell-foundation or email foundation@ferrellhospital.org.
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