Meet Rene Valdez of Stand-up for Humanity in Tucson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rene Valdez.

Rene, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I just left a 13-year career in law enforcement to produce a large scale local comedy show (Stand-up for Humanity) to raise money for two great organizations that aid the wellbeing of youth (The Forgotten Children & The Esperanza Dance Project). I became aware of Esperanza a year ago when I experienced one of their performances and was lucky enough to meet with the director Beth Braun. They perform at all the local high schools helping youth speak out against abuse as well as aiding those who are victims of it. They help with dance therapy, it’s amazing what they do! On October 18th they are going to open the show with an exciting dance number and then the following weekend they’re being honored by the state of Arizona for all their years of hard work.

The Forgotten Children was founded by “El” ( Elijah Ndoye) approximately nine years ago, he and his family have been diligently constructing a school/orphanage for abandon children in his hometown of Senegal, Africa. As of now they’re housing 25 children and are adding on to the facility when they can raise funds for building materials. El is actually in Senegal right now adding on to the building and rescuing more kids, he found four on the street his first night.

For my whole career, I have dedicated my safety, my time, and my physical/mental health to serve my community. This project allows me to still help out those who could use a hand. My goal is to not only raise money for these two organizations but to give Tucson a break from the everyday stresses of life. For the duration of the event, I want the people to enjoy the car show, the food trucks, the raffle, the comedy show and for that time not have to think about the mortgage, work, politics, etc. I want the community to band together and share a good time for a great cause, that is what my goal is for this show. When all is said and done, everything went well, we’ll start planning next year’s show.

Has it been a smooth road?
Having never organized an event of this capacity has been a unique experience. Every day has posed new challenges and adventures. The biggest obstacles have been finding a famous headliner at an affordable price and finding local sponsors to help fund the show. Many big-name stand-up comics were willing to do the show, but due to scheduling conflicts were unable to commit. We are grateful and very fortunate to land one of the biggest names in comedy Bobby Slayton. When he found out the reason why we are putting on this event he was on board and has been a great supporter.

Tell us more about your organization.
TucsonFats Productions was created to produce community events such as Stand-up for Humanity. The goal is to bring people together to raise money for great non-profit organizations as well as spotlighting local artists, businesses, and performers.

How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
In the upcoming years, TucsonFats productions will be producing more events in addition to Stand-up for Humanity to help out more organizations and more people.

Pricing:

• VIP Tickets are $35, includes a front row seat, swag bag, & a post show meet n’ greet with the comics.
• General Admission Tickets are $24

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tucsonfatsproducti.wixsite.com/stand-upforhumanit-1
• Phone: 520-442-9494
• Email: standupforhumanity.tucsonshow@gmail.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/528185781324366/
• Other: Stand-up for Humanity

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