The event, hosted by the New Ulm Area Group of Thrivent, drew a capacity crowd to the bistro and will directly assist eight area residents facing cancer-related financial needs.

Foundation co-founder Sandy Reinke confirmed the total at the close of the evening after counting on-site donations from song requests, tips, and other contributions.

Thrivent provided matching funds that doubled the $3,500 raised during the two-hour program.

“This is huge,” said foundation co-founder Reinke. “Eight families were helped today in a matter of two hours.”

A capacity crowd fills Lola's for a dueling-pianos fundraiser benefiting the Tea for Cancer Foundation. The event, hosted by the New Ulm Area Group of Thrivent, raised more than $8,000 to assist eight area residents with cancer-related expenses (Photo by Amy Zents)

Reinke said the funds provide immediate relief to verified cancer patients currently awaiting assistance.

The performance featured Aaron Lotzow and Steve Vaught of Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos. The duo performed an interactive set driven by audience song requests sent via a digital list. 

Attendees contributed $50 to bring friends onstage for performances or paid a higher amount to avoid the spotlight. 

The interactive format allowed the audience to influence the setlist while contributing directly to the fundraising goal. 

Since late 2019, Tea of Cancer has raised more than $140,000 to cover non-medical burdens such as household bills, groceries, and transportation for treatment. 

Guest participant Stevie Pearson leads the crowd in a rendition of “I Want to Hold Your Hand” at Lola's. The event featured audience members joining performers from Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos to raise funds for area residents facing cancer-related expenses. (Photo by Amy Zents)

All board members are volunteers. Rueckert said the board reviewed 15 applications in January alone. 

Of the constant demand for aid, she said, “It’s exciting but sad when you see the need.” 

Thrivent also covered the venue rental and food costs for the event. Other team members present included Amy Pearson. 

Staff from Lola’s managed the food line and cash bar while the pianists performed selections including “Fly Me to the Moon,” “American Pie,” and “Piano Man.” 

Aron Bode oversaw the staff, which included Abby Sowers and Daniel Richards.

Dueling pianist Aaron Lotzow leads a sing-along at Lola's on Thursday night. The fundraiser, sponsored by Thrivent, provided financial relief for eight local families facing cancer-related expenses. (Photo by Amy Zents)

The fundraiser was held in memory of Vicki Maday and Tim Domeier. 

Lotzow and Vaught said the crowd’s energy was a factor in the night’s success. 

Reinke thanked the bistro staff for hosting and recognized the Thrivent planning team and performers for their time. 

The foundation maintains its funding through various efforts, including its signature annual high tea held each September at the Best Western Plus. That event typically raises around $30,000.

The group also holds music bingo sessions known as “Singo,” which average $1,000 per event. Rueckert  said the sessions have become a popular addition to their calendar. “Music Singo’s really taken off,”  Rueckert said. “A lot of people are finding out about it.” 

Plans are to resume monthly Singo sessions after the September high tea.

Vaught told the crowd near the end of the set, “You guys absolutely were living generously tonight.”

The organization continues to accept applications year-round for cancer patients in the New Ulm area and surrounding communities. 

Interested applicants or donors can find more information or submit needs at teaforcancer.org or via email at support@teaforcancer.org. 

Local residents can also follow the foundation’s Facebook page for updates on upcoming fundraisers and volunteer opportunities.