Raising Funds and Saving Lives: The Screw Cancer Festival's Remarkable Impact

The Screw Cancer Festival and Fundraiser, organized by the dedicated committee members of Flickerwood Wine Cellars, has become a beacon of hope in the fight against cancer. This annual event, now in its second year, has not only raised a remarkable $16,100 for the Warren Cancer Center but has also collected an impressive 41 units of blood, making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by this devastating disease.

Uniting the Community in the Battle Against Cancer

A Heartfelt Tribute and a Lifesaving Mission

The Screw Cancer Festival and Fundraiser was born out of a deeply personal experience for the Zampogna family. When their father, Ron Zampogna, needed a blood transfusion during a hospital visit, his daughters, Tammy Zampogna-Liberato and her sister, were inspired to take action. "At that moment, we decided to sponsor a blood drive," Tammy recounted. This initial idea quickly blossomed into a full-fledged music festival, with the dual purpose of honoring their father and other friends who have battled cancer, as well as raising funds for the Warren Cancer Center where their father received treatment.

A Harmonious Celebration of Life

The Screw Cancer Festival and Fundraiser has become a true celebration of life, with 12 talented musicians donating their time and talents to entertain the attendees throughout the day. Many of these musicians had previously played in bands with their father, Ron Zampogna, creating a poignant and heartwarming connection to the event's purpose. Over the past two years, the festival has raised a remarkable total of $31,000, a testament to the community's unwavering support and the Zampogna family's unwavering dedication.

A Tapestry of Remembrance and Hope

The festival has also become a place of remembrance and hope, with the addition of a Warrior Wall that displays 50 pictures of individuals who have cancer or have passed away from the disease. This powerful display serves as a solemn tribute to those who have been affected by cancer, while also inspiring the community to continue the fight. The night concluded with the release of flying lanterns, a symbolic gesture to honor the loved ones who have succumbed to this formidable foe.

A Multifaceted Fundraising Effort

The Screw Cancer Festival and Fundraiser employed a diverse range of fundraising strategies to support the Warren Cancer Center. Private donations, a live auction, a silent auction, basket giveaways, and the sale of lanterns and t-shirts all contributed to the impressive $16,100 raised during this year's event. The festival's organizers have demonstrated a remarkable ability to engage the community and leverage various revenue streams to maximize the impact of their efforts.

A Lasting Legacy of Compassion and Resilience

The Screw Cancer Festival and Fundraiser has become more than just an annual event; it has evolved into a symbol of the community's unwavering commitment to supporting those affected by cancer. The Zampogna family's personal experience has inspired them to create a platform that not only raises funds but also fosters a sense of unity, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity. As the festival continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a testament to the power of community, the strength of the human spirit, and the transformative impact that can be achieved when individuals come together to confront a common challenge.