14 years strong in support of on our own
Joey Elias and the Comedy All-Stars: An Evening of Hilarity forthe Benefit of On Our Own (O3) returns for its 14th consecutive year, continuing a legacy of laughter and generosity in support of one of Montreal’s most impactful grassroots organizations. Hosted by Media Experts and powered by a coalition of its media vendor partners, the annual event has now raised over $1 million for O3’s life-changing programming.
This year’s show will take place Thursday, September 18th at Club Soda, Montreal’s legendary comedy venue. Long-time host Joey Elias returns to the stage alongside his CJAD Trivia Show co-host Jay Farrar. The 2025 lineup features a who’s who of local talent: Daniel Carin, Kyra Carlton, Walter Lyng and Rodney Ramsey. Thanks to the support of a private family foundation, covering all of the overhead, 100% of the event’s revenue goes directly to O3.
“This show is a cornerstone of our agency’s culture of care,” says Karel Wegert, CEO of Media Experts. “This event proves that a single night of joy can fuel an entire year of change. We’re proud that, 14 years in, it continues to be one of the most impactful things we do.” On Our Own (O3) is a Montreal-based non-profit that helps single moms, and their infant children transition out of poverty by providing a`ordable housing, education, parenting support, and life skills. The revenue from this annual fundraiser represents the largest single gift O3 receives each year — funds that help 29 young families in peril stabilize and grow.
As the cost of living continues to climb, demand for O3’s services is rising. Their programs — delivered with a trauma-informed and culturally responsive lens — o`er not just safety and shelter, but also long-term empowerment. Single moms are guided from crisis to confidence, equipped with tools to re-build brighter futures.
“Every year, this event allows us to say ‘yes’ — to meals, to childcare, to education, to hope,” says Amanda Murphy, Director of O3. “It means we don’t just meet urgent needs —we build lasting impact.”
In 2025, donations will help O3 deliver essential support across three key areas that shape the future of young families. Contributions will help combat food insecurity by supporting collective cooking programs, nutrition workshops, healthy meals served before learning sessions, and an emergency pantry stocked with essentials for families in crisis. They will also enhance parenting support through infant stimulation groups, personalized coaching, and bonding activities like family outings, crafts, and kids’ yoga. Finally, your support will strengthen financial literacy programming — including budgeting and debt management classes, academic and career coaching, and job readiness training — empowering single moms to build a more secure and independent future for their families.
“Watching this event grow beyond the million-dollar milestone has been one of the most meaningful journeys of my philanthropic undertakings” says Mark Sherman, Founder of Media Experts. “This show is a reflection of what’s possible when a business collective creates community with its vendor partners. It personifies the power of teamwork, not just for economic activity, but also for doing good.
Building on the success of past events that have collectively raised over $1 million, the organizing committee is optimistic about setting a new annual fundraising record this year. Each event continues to make a significant impact on the lives of single moms and their infants in the community, and there is great excitement to see how much more can be achieved.
Tickets are $50, with $25 tax deductible. Doors open at 6 PM, with the show starting at 7 PM.