The Joseph M. Fannell Memorial Foundation Inc

The Joseph M. Fannell Memorial Foundation Inc The Joseph M. Fannell Memorial Foundation was established by his family to continue his legacy. On the morning of June 4, 2015, Joseph M.

Fannell was on his way to work when a driver sped through a red light and struck his car broadside. The next day, Joseph died as a result of the injuries he suffered in the crash. Just days following his tragic death, the Joseph M. Fannell Memorial Fund was established by the family to create and support programs aimed to help youth overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Joseph was a young man of many talents. In addition to working with his dad full time, in his spare time, he enjoyed performing spoken word, writing poetry, singing, playing the piano (by ear), drawing and gaming. He also had his own YouTube channel where he and some of his friends created video game enhancements. In addition, as one who was bullied, Joseph wanted to share his experiences with those in high school who may have been victims of bullying. He wanted to encourage students to seek help to overcome bullying and achieve their goals in school and beyond. To realize Joe’s dream, the Foundation endeavors to support local and national programs that seek to stop bullying. If you're interested in furthering the work of the JMF Memorial Foundation, you can donate through our GiveButter platform at https://givebutter.com/JMFGeneral where you have a variety of ways to give, by credit card, check or other means. You can also text JMFFUND to 53-555 or simply send a check to the Joseph M. Fannell Memorial Foundation, 10926 Quality Drive, PO Box 411291, Charlotte, NC 28241-1291. You may also contribute immediately to the Fund, through PayPal at Paypal.me/ripjoe, CashApp $JMFFoundation, by Zelle using (609) 233-4310 or Givelify ://giv.li/cy5udz or visit the Joseph M. Fannell Memorial Foundation's website at www.josephmfannellmemorialfoundation.org for a direct link.

This Saturday is Joe's Café — and we want you to know what your ticket actually does. It puts resources (like actual mon...
10/12/2026

This Saturday is Joe's Café — and we want you to know what your ticket actually does.

It puts resources (like actual money) in the hands of young people. It funds the JMF Creative & Performing Arts Scholarships and Grant — graduating seniors nationwide; it creates opportunities for youth and young adults everywhere singing in their bedrooms and everywhere else they can, chasing the same dreams Joe chased.

Last month one of the moms told us her daughter went from not placing at all in the contest last year to SECOND PLACE this year. 🥹 Because we were able to hold the JMF PAC Competition again, she had a second chance. It made a difference. That's what your support on Saturday night means. Every dollar makes a difference.

For tickets, visit givebutter.com/joescafe26 and meet us at Tabbris in Charlotte — this Saturday, Oct 17, 5–9pm. Don't forget food, dessert & drinks is included all for one price and you'll get some extra goodies!

Featuring the incredible Aniyah Young, Zaire 'King' Franklin, Derick 'Justdamessenger' Lee, and our Host is Comedian Gari 'Funk' Fields — who at this point, is just family. And we'll also feature a few of our JMF winners!

Who are you bringing? Tag them below! 👇

WE’RE HALFWAY THERE — HELP US FINISH STRONG! 💛We are officially less than two weeks away from the 4th Annual Joe’s Café ...
10/05/2026

WE’RE HALFWAY THERE — HELP US FINISH STRONG! 💛

We are officially less than two weeks away from the 4th Annual Joe’s Café Fundraiser, and thanks to the support we’ve received so far, we are HALFWAY to our fundraising goal!

Now, we need our JMF family, friends and community to help us take it the rest of the way.

On Saturday, October 17, we’ll gather at Tabbris in Charlotte for an unforgettable evening celebrating creativity, community and the legacy of our Joseph Fannell.
🎤 Hosted by comedian Gari Fields
🎸 Jazz guitarist Zaire Franklin
🎙️ Spoken word artist Derick Lee
🎶 Singer/performer Aniyah Young
✨ Plus special performances featuring our JMF grant recipient and PAC winners

Your $175 ticket includes:
🍸 Cocktail hour with butler-passed hors d’oeuvres
🍽️ Unlimited food, drinks & dessert ALL NIGHT
🎶 Live entertainment
💛 And most importantly—the opportunity to help us continue investing in youth and young adults.

TIME IS RUNNING OUT.
🎟️ Less than two weeks remain to purchase tickets.
📣 Only a few days remain to purchase souvenir journal ads and sponsorship opportunities.
Every ticket. Every ad. Every sponsorship. Every contribution. It all moves the mission forward.
📅 Saturday, October 17 | 5–9 PM
📍 Tabbris | 1300 South Blvd., Charlotte
Purchase tickets and support Joe’s Café at givebutter.com/joescafe26

📱 Questions about tickets, ads or sponsorships? Call/text 609-233-4310

Can't attend? You can still support the mission with a contribution or by sharing this post.

We’re halfway there. Help us FINISH STRONG—together. 💛 For our youth. And for Joseph.

Our MC Comedian Gari Fields is no stranger to Joe's Cafe. He has hosted this event for the last three years. Gari's gi...
10/01/2026

Our MC Comedian Gari Fields is no stranger to Joe's Cafe. He has hosted this event for the last three years.

Gari's gift of comedy comes natural. It's rooted in his soul. Straight out of Rochester, NY, it's been undeniable since childhood. At just nine years old, he was already turning the family living room into a stage, hosting off‑the‑cuff comedy shows that made everyone lean in and laugh hard. Since then, he’s traveled nationwide, building an impressive resume and a style that blends sharp satire with pure laugh‑your‑butt‑off comedy.

Joining him is Spoken Word Artist, Derick Lee; Songstress, Aniyah Young and Jazz Guitarist, Zaire Franklin. — Songstress & Performing Artist
Gari “Funk” Fields — Comedian & MC

Tickets: $175 • Sponsorships + journal ads available
Info: 609‑233‑4310 • givebutter.com/joescafe26
Contribute: Text JMFFund to 53‑555
All proceeds uplift youth through scholarships, grants, and creative programs.


10/01/2026

We shine another spotlight on our MC Gari "Funk" Fields.

Comedian Gari Fields has hosted Joe’s Café for three years now — and at this point, he’s family. We couldn’t get rid of him if we tried (not that we want to). We’re honored to have him back again.

With hundreds of shows behind him, Gari is quickly becoming a household name — and absolutely the next comedian you want on your stage. He’s a JMF family household name, through and through. For sure.

Joe’s Café is the Foundation’s annual fundraiser — an evening where artistry, community, unlimited food, drink, and purpose meet under one roof. It’s a night built to uplift young talent and honor Joseph’s legacy through creativity and connection.

Joining Gari on the Joe’s Café stage:
Derick “Justdamessenger” Lee — Spoken Word Artist
Aniyah Young — Songstress & Performing Artist
Zaire Franklin — Jazz Guitarist
Tickets are $175 per person.
Sponsorship packages and souvenir journal advertising space are still available.
For tickets or information, call/text 609‑233‑4310 or visit givebutter.com/joescafe26.
To make a contribution, text JMFFund to 53‑555.

All proceeds support youth and young adults through the Foundation’s scholarship and grant programs, talent competitions, and other creative initiatives.


Derick steps into Joe’s Café carrying story, spirit, and the kind of truth that sits with you long after the mic goes qu...
09/29/2026

Derick steps into Joe’s Café carrying story, spirit, and the kind of truth that sits with you long after the mic goes quiet. Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Derick’s voice is shaped by classrooms, communities, and the power of words. His background in education and journalism gives his work a grounded honesty — the kind that teaches while it moves you. He is the author of the Stream of Consciousness series and the creative force behind his independently produced spoken word poetry special, On The Way, now streaming on Even.biz.

At Joe’s Café, Derick brings all of that — the educator, the journalist, the poet, the messenger — offering a performance that feels real. And quietly reminds us of our very own.

_____________

Joe’s Café is the Foundation’s annual fundraiser — an evening where artistry, community, unlimited food, drink, and purpose meet under one roof. It’s a night built to uplift young talent and honor Joseph’s legacy through creativity and connection.

Joining Derick on the Joe’s Café stage:
Aniyah Young — Songstress & Performing Artist
Gari “Funk” Fields — Comedian & MC
Zaire Franklin — Jazz guitarist
Tickets are $175 per person.
Sponsorship packages and souvenir journal advertising space are still available.
For tickets or information, call/text 609‑233‑4310 or visit givebutter.com/joescafe26.
To make a contribution, text JMFFund to 53‑555.

All proceeds support youth and young adults through the Foundation’s scholarship and grant programs, talent competitions, and other creative initiatives.

09/28/2026

Joe’s Café Performer Spotlight: Derick Lee

Derick “Justdamessenger” Lee is back in the building — bringing that fire‑filled storytelling that hits your chest and doesn’t let go. From Hoodie Season to his spoken word special On The Way, he’s stepping into Joe’s Café ONCE AGAIN with truth, rhythm, and a voice that moves the room. There's a reason we had to bring him back. Prepare yourself.

Joining him: Songstress Aniyah Young, Jazz guitarist Zaire Franklin and Comedian Gari “Funk” Fields (MC).
Tickets: $175 • Sponsorships + journal ads available
Info: 609‑233‑4310 • givebutter.com/joescafe26
Contribute: Text JMFFund to 53‑555

All proceeds uplift youth through scholarships, grants, and creative programs.

Joe’s Café is just a few weeks away and the stage is set. On Saturday, October 17, we gather for an evening shaped by a...
09/25/2026

Joe’s Café is just a few weeks away and the stage is set.

On Saturday, October 17, we gather for an evening shaped by artistry, community, and purpose. From our featured guests — jazz guitarist Zaire Franklin, spoken word artist Derick Lee, and powerhouse vocalist Aniyah Young — to the rising young creatives stepping into their moment, this year’s lineup carries the heart of JMF forward with every note, every word, every moment.

And yes, we’re adding some laughter too — our resident host, comedian Gari Fields, is back to fill the room. Join us for an unforgettable night.

✨ 4th Annual Joe’s Café Fundraiser
🎤 Live entertainment from our featured guests + special performances by JMF grant recipients and PAC winners
🍸 Cocktail hour with butler‑passed hors d’oeuvres
🍽️ Unlimited food, drinks & dessert all night
👗 Casual chic attire

This night is more than a show — it’s a celebration of creativity, legacy, and the young people we support.

🎟️ Tickets: $175 per person
📣 Sponsorship packages + souvenir journal ads available
📱 Call/text 609‑233‑4310
🔗 givebutter.com/joescafe26
💛 To contribute: text JMFFund to 53‑555

All proceeds support youth and young adults through the Foundation’s scholarship and grant programs, talent competitions, and other creative initiatives.


Joe’s Café 2026 is shining the spotlight on jazz guitarist and multi‑instrumentalist Zaire “King” Franklin, joining us a...
09/24/2026

Joe’s Café 2026 is shining the spotlight on jazz guitarist and multi‑instrumentalist Zaire “King” Franklin, joining us all the way from Los Angeles.

Zaire’s connection to the Foundation runs deep. He is the 2024 JMF Performing Arts Contest Winner and the 2025 Memorial Award Recipient, a young artist whose dedication, discipline, and soul‑centered creativity continue to inspire. As a full‑time Jazz Studies student at the University of Southern California, Zaire has already released multiple albums and performed with renowned musicians across the country. His artistry carries both excellence and heart, the very spirit of what we seek to display at Joe’s Café.

Joe’s Café is the Foundation’s annual fundraiser — an evening where artistry, community, unlimited food, drink, and purpose meet under one roof. It’s a night built to uplift young talent and honor Joseph’s legacy through creativity and connection.

Joining Zaire on the Joe’s Café stage:
Derick “Justdamessenger” Lee — Spoken Word Artist
Aniyah Young — Songstress & Performing Artist
Gari “Funk” Fields — Comedian & MC

Tickets are $175 per person.
Sponsorship packages and souvenir journal advertising space are still available.

For tickets or information, call/text 609‑233‑4310 or visit givebutter.com/joescafe26.
To make a contribution, text JMFFund to 53‑555.

All proceeds support youth and young adults through the Foundation’s scholarship and grant programs, talent competitions, and other creative initiatives.


09/24/2026

Joe’s Café Performer Spotlight: Zaire “King” Franklin

LA’s own jazz guitarist and multi‑instrumentalist returns to Charlotte!
2024 JMF Performing Arts Winner • 2025 Memorial Award Recipient • USC Jazz Studies artist with multiple albums.

Joining him: Spoken Word artist Derick “Justdamessenger” Lee, Songstress Aniyah Young, and Comedian Gari “Funk” Fields (MC).

Tickets: $175 • Sponsorships + journal ads available
Info: 609‑233‑4310 • givebutter.com/joescafe26
Contribute: Text JMFFund to 53‑555

All proceeds uplift youth through scholarships, grants, and creative programs.

Joe's Cafe Artist Spotlight! ANIYAH YOUNG.Aniyah Young was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, and discovered...
09/21/2026

Joe's Cafe Artist Spotlight! ANIYAH YOUNG.

Aniyah Young was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, and discovered her voice at just nine years old. She has been singing ever since. Earlier this year, she earned an Ace Award for her powerful portrayal of Celie in The Color Purple at the Little Theatre of Gastonia — a role that showcased both her emotional depth and her commanding stage presence.

Aniyah currently performs with Charlotte’s Next Level Band and recently graced the Main Stage at the Taste of Charlotte Festival, sharing her artistry with her hometown and beyond. Her journey continues to reflect a devotion to excellence, community, and the healing power of performance.

For Aniyah, every gift is meant to be shared. She believes the truest measure of artistry is the ability to make someone feel seen, understood, and transformed. Whether through song, theatre, or storytelling, she hopes every note she sings and every character she embodies leaves a piece of light with those who experience it.

Joining Aniyah at this year’s Café is Spoken Word Artist Derick “Justdamessenger” Lee, along with returning host Comedian Gari “Funk” Fields. The Café will also welcome jazz guitarist Zaire Franklin, a previous JMF Memorial Award recipient and the 2024 Performing Arts Contest Winner.

Tickets — which include unlimited food, drinks, dessert, and more — are $175 per person. Sponsorship packages and souvenir journal advertising space are still available.

To purchase or for more information, call/text 609‑233‑4310, scan the QR code, or visit https://givebutter.com/joescafe26. To make a contribution, text JMFFund to 53‑555.

This is a fundraising event, and all proceeds support youth and young adults through the Foundation’s scholarship and grant programs, talent competitions, and other creative initiatives.

Address

Charlotte, NC

Telephone

+16092334310

Website

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