🎤 Dynamic Duos and Big Impact: Hosting a Fundraiser with LeeAnn Trotter for Future Cycle Breakers & The Puddle Project

Every now and then, you meet someone who just lights up the stage, the room, and the hearts of everyone around them. At a recent fundraiser supporting Future Cycle Breakers and The Puddle Project, I had the absolute joy of co-hosting with one of the most energetic, witty, and genuine people I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with: LeeAnn Trotter of NBC 5 Chicago.

While she may be small in stature, make no mistake—LeeAnn is a powerhouse of personality, presence, and purpose. Her quick wit, infectious charm, and sincere love of lifting up others brought a vibrant energy to the night that guests won’t soon forget.

💫 Why Co-Hosting Makes a Fundraiser Even Stronger

As a professional auctioneer and emcee, I’ve been lucky to work with hundreds of organizations and events across the country. But let me tell you—when you have the right onstage partner, it’s like lightning in a bottle.

LeeAnn and I clicked instantly. She brought that perfect blend of heart, humor, and hometown pride that resonates deeply with a Chicago audience. And when you’re raising money for life-changing youth programs like Future Cycle Breakers and The Puddle Project, that connection matters.

Together, we were able to engage the crowd, move them emotionally, and inspire them to open their hearts—and their wallets. That’s what great hosting is all about.

🌍 Fundraising for a Cause That Truly Matters

The night was in support of two organizations that are deeply committed to creating opportunity and equity:

• Future Cycle Breakers is dedicated to helping young people break through the barriers of generational poverty, trauma, and injustice. These young leaders are rewriting their stories—and we’re helping them turn the page.

• The Puddle Project, founded by the unstoppable Charita Lucas and Dr. Shelley Amuh, is a grassroots initiative focused on nurturing youth through mentorship, education, and entrepreneurship. Their work is hands-on, heart-led, and making a real impact in Chicago.

And when a city shows up like it did that night—with love, donations, and belief in a brighter future—that’s how real change happens.

🎙️ The Power of Great Hosts in a Fundraising Event

Here’s the truth: people don’t just give to causes—they give to people they trust and moments that move them. A great host doesn't just keep the schedule—they set the tone of the entire evening.

With LeeAnn Trotter on stage, there wasn’t a dull moment. From quick banter to heartfelt appeals, her presence was warm, authentic, and truly magnetic. She made my job as an auctioneer and emcee even more fun and effective—and together, we helped raise vital funds for programs that will change lives.

If you’re planning a fundraiser, never underestimate the value of your event hosts. The right team can turn an average night into an unforgettable, high-impact experience that brings in more donations and more joy.

💼 Planning a Fundraiser? Let’s Make It Exceptional.

At HappyTown Fundraisers, we specialize in producing high-energy, high-impact fundraising events that get results. Whether it’s an auction, paddle raise, or interactive show, we help nonprofits, schools, and grassroots organizations raise more money while creating a night to remember.

When you book Brett Walkow as your fundraising auctioneer and emcee, you’re not just getting a guy with a mic—you’re getting a partner who cares about your mission, your guests, and your goals.

From behind-the-scenes strategy to onstage energy, we bring the full package—and love doing it.

👉 Learn more and book your next event at: www.happytownfundraisers.com

Let’s raise more, laugh more, and change more lives—together.