On Saturday, 7 p.m., Morgan Park United Methodist Church at 11030 S. Longwood Drive will open its doors for a family‑friendly comedy night titled “Laugh With Leon.” The event, organized by church member April Preyar and comedian Leon Rogers, aims to raise money for critical repairs to the historic sanctuary.
Why the fundraiser matters
The church, a landmark designed by architect Harry Hale Waterman in 1912 and completed in 1913, faces costly maintenance issues. Recent summer storms damaged the building’s copper gutters and clay‑tile roof, and the congregation is still seeking funds for a new boiler. “We have gutters that are in need of repairs and they couldn’t sustain all the water that came down from these storms,” Preyar explained.
Comedy with a purpose
Leon Rogers, a Washington Heights native and co‑host of 107.5 WGCI’s morning show, will host the evening. Rogers emphasized that the show will be “nice, clean comedy — no profanity — and just professionalism at its finest with some very funny people.” Seven additional comics, including Kellye Howard, Damon Howard, Fab Monroe, B Cole, Just Nesh and WGCI personality Zach Boog, will perform, with a surprise headliner announced for later in the night.
Rogers said the goal is two‑fold: to entertain the community and to give emerging comics a platform. “The goal is not only to entertain and to raise money, but it’s also to give comics that might not necessarily get a look, to introduce them to a new audience,” he said.
Supporting broader community needs
The church also houses several nonprofit initiatives, most notably the Maple Morgan Park Food Pantry, which has served more than 1,500 neighbors and families for over four decades. Funds raised from the comedy show will directly support the church’s building projects, helping preserve a historic place of worship and community service.
Tickets and details
Tickets are $25 if purchased in advance and $30 at the door. For more information, visitors can consult the event’s online page.
By blending faith‑based stewardship with local entertainment, Morgan Park United Methodist Church continues its tradition of serving both spiritual and practical needs of the neighborhood.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
