Habitat to host Comedy Night

We believe in the power of a good laugh — especially when it helps support those who have served our country. In honor of May’s Military Appreciation Month, Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) will host its first-ever Comedy Night on Friday, May 15. The event features local comedians Steve Nagle and Marty Caproni of Rock 102FM, who will bring an evening of high-energy entertainment to support a meaningful cause.

Doors open at 6pm and the show begins at 7, at AMVETS Post 12 in Chicopee. Tickets are $25 each and will benefit Greater Springfield Habitat’s Home Preservation Veterans Build program, which provides critical home repairs for low-income veterans who, due to age, disability, or family circumstances, struggle to maintain safe and functional homes.

“I’ve heard them on the radio talking about other shows they’ve done, and it felt like the perfect fit for our community,” said Aimee Giroux, GSHFH executive director. “At Habitat, we believe in creating events that bring people together and make an impact — while still having fun.”

Between them, Steve and Marty bring nearly 40 years of experience performing on stages across the United States and Canada.

Steve said he got his start 23 years ago when he took the stage at an open mic night at The Clubhouse Lounge in Holyoke.

“I bombed it,” he said, “and I haven’t stopped since.”

In the past three years, Steve said he’s really dedicated himself more fully to the craft. When Aimee approached him about participating in Habitat’s Comedy Night, he immediately saw it as a “perfect fit.”

“I love doing comedy, and I love helping the community,” he said.

Marty, who said he began his comedy career nearly 20 years ago as a dare from a gym buddy, said he really enjoys watching Steve perform.

“Steve has worked really hard over the last few years and has gotten so sharp onstage that I actually enjoy the nights when I’m done and can relax and watch him work,” Marty said.

At the Habitat Comedy Night, Marty and Steve are expected to each perform full headline-length sets.

“People are so divided nowadays,” Marty said. “Steve and I always talk about what a gift it really is that we can do things like this show to bring folks together, have them laugh and escape for a bit, while raising critical funds for a great cause.”

Numerous veterans have benefitted from GSHFH’s Home Preservation Veterans Build program, including Tom and his wife Dolores of Indian Orchard. Tom is an Army veteran who served in the 1960s. These days, Tom suffers from several heart-related conditions and balance issues.

Greater Springfield Habitat replaced the downstairs bathtub with a walk-in tub with grab bars, the ceramic tiles in the kitchen and hallway with laminate flooring; and rebuilt the exterior entryway and stairs.

“Greater Springfield Habitat is an absolutely phenomenal agency that helps the little guy, with low income,” said Tom.

Dolores agreed.

“Knowing that there are people out there to help us is a blessing,” she said. “It’s remarkable; it’s like winning the lottery, but in a different way.”

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just looking for a fun night out, buy your tickets today at habitatspringfield.org/comedy.