|
It wasn’t American Idol, but the neighborhood talent show in Bethlehem, N.Y., had a much more important purpose—it honored their American Idols, the men and women serving overseas.
After the Fourth of July, 13-year-old Sarah Hospodar wanted to host a talent show to benefit troops overseas.
“Believe it or not, she got a great response!” said Sarah’s mother, Mary Ann Hospodar. Soon, neighborhood adults and children as young as three years old were clamoring to be part of the show. What started out as a simple, thoughtful idea developed into the full-fledged production with the backing of the entire neighborhood.
With plans in the works, Hospodar began to search for a reputable charity to donate the proceeds in support of the troops. The local VFW Post recommended VFW Operation Uplink™, and everyone agreed that this was the best way to support deployed service members.
Meanwhile, Sarah Hospodar and her neighbors held planning meetings to make the show a reality. One neighbor was able to get a sound system for the event, and another agreed to host the show on the basketball court in the family backyard. In the days leading up to the event, the talent show performers held dress rehearsals.
“It was not an uncommon sight to see children practicing their acts on their front lawns,” said Hospodar.
Soon, it was the day of the big show. Flyers and posters advertising the event were visible throughout the entire neighborhood. Audience members set up their lawn chairs and enjoyed songs, dance routines, instrumentals and even a few lip-synced songs.
During the event, audience members could buy raffle tickets or buy baked goods, with all proceeds going to VFW Operation Uplink. By the end of the night, Sarah Hospodar’s talent show had raised $625!
“My favorite part was seeing the neighborhood rally around my daughter’s idea,” said Hospodar. “It wasn’t just the adults that were excited. The children were very enthusiastic, and it was great to see them making excited phone calls, asking if they could add another act to the show.
“To see the excitement of the children as they supported the troops was very touching.”
Sarah Hospodar was pumped that her idea was a success.
“I was so proud of all the support from people young and old,” she said. “I never would have thought we’d go this far and have the show!” | 
