Better than ever! That was the feeling among the Trim Hunger team, the performers, and the audience after the 3rd annual Grateful Groove. The fundraising concert took place at the beautiful Lawrence Memorial Chapel in Appleton. Each year, the event brings the community together for an unforgettable night of music to support Trim Hunger’s mission of combating hunger.
A Star-Studded Lineup
This year’s Grateful Groove featured an impressive lineup of artists kicked off by Steve March-Tormé and the band Pegasis. March-Tormé brought a blend of jazz, pop, and blues to Christmas classics such as “Santa Claus is Coming to town.” The dynamic trio of Pegasis added their unique fusion of harmonies with a beautiful rendition of “Merry Christmas, Darling.” The setlist was full of songs of the season and audience members could be seen singing along. “A festive, yet elegant evening,” said Trim Hunger Vice President Scott Dohms. “The night was filled with great music put on by very talented artists.”
Celebrated musician Colin Welford returned to the Grateful Groove stage this year. From Broadway to Door County, Colin has performed around the world. On this night, Colin worked his magic on the keys at both the piano and the chapel’s gorgeous pipe organ. He collaborated with two other featured performers, accompanying both soprano Cynthia Stiehl and violinist Salvador Ruiz.
Fittingly, Cynthia performed a song called “Grateful.” The celebrated soprano is known for her commanding presence, and tonight was no different. Cynthia has performed in renowned concert halls and is a passionate advocate for the arts. She was right at home in the Lawrence Memorial Chapel!
15-year-old Salvador wowed the audience with his mastery of the violin. Not only did the rising star impress by playing Vivaldi’s Winter, he also rocked out on stage with a version of Carol of the Bells. It was a highlight of the evening!
Trim Hunger founder Josif Wittnik says the post concert feedback has been so positive. “How Colin is so funny and real and how Sal blew their socks off! It was really a strong performance.” Every one of the artists shares a passion for giving back to the community, making them perfect ambassadors of the Trim Hunger mission. Grateful Groove is a perfect example that music has the power to bring people together and inspire change.
The Cause Behind the Concert
Grateful Groove 2024 is more than just a concert. It’s a celebration of generosity, unity, and hope. All proceeds go directly toward Trim Hunger’s programs to fight food insecurity. Hunger remains a pressing issue, affecting millions across the country, including families, children, and seniors in our own community. Trim Hunger aims to provide access to nutritious meals, education on healthy eating, and support for local food systems. And that is why Trim Hunger upped the fundraising efforts at this year’s concert with pickles and ornaments…
pickles and ornaments for a cause
Along with his co-host, Fox 11’s Rachel Manek, Josif encouraged guests to open their hearts and wallets to further fund the mission. During intermission, Trim Hunger volunteers sold jars of Josif’s favorite pickles, from Wienke’s Market in Door County. Each jar has a special Trim Hunger label showing the collaboration between the two. By the end of the night, all of the jars were gone!
Also new this year, were 25 ornaments to “feed the need.” The Appleton School District reached out to Trim Hunger to help provide a holiday meal to 25 families in need. Josif, and his friends in the community,came up with the idea for the ornaments. For 50 dollars, you get an ornament, and someone gets a meal. The effort was a huge success. Josif learned later that a local business owner bought the last remaining nine ornaments at the end of the night.
After the concert, VIP ticket holders enjoyed a post party at Riverside County Club. Guests were treated to a signature cocktail, delicious food from Heirloom Kitchen Co., and a chance to meet the performers. A perfect way to cap off the night!
Will there be a Grateful Groove 2025? Josif says yes! So stay tuned. Follow Trim Hunger on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.