Celebrity impersonator to perform for homeless fundraiser

People in need are everywhere. From the streets of New York City to our own city of Murray, there is someone who would value another person’s assistance.

Wherever people in need may be, Need Line is there to get them back on their feet. Murray has its own Need Line branch that helps the less fortunate.

Operating several programs like the Backpack Program, which gives food to children who have nowhere else to get it on the weekends, and the Senior Program which gives food to 250 seniors every third Thursday of the month, Need Line helps anyone they can.

Operating as a nonprofit organization can be a challenging task, however. Which means Need Line of Murray relies on the community to support it through their fundraisers. Coming 7 p.m. on Saturday, to Lovett Auditorium, is Needline’s latest fundraiser: Michael Kelley, a renowned celebrity vocal impressionist.

“We had him come to Murray last year, and he was very good,” Tonia Casey, executive director of Need Line said. “He did so great last year we thought we should bring him back.”

Kelley combines his talent as a vocal impressionist and his belief in Christianity to put on a family oriented show.

Using comical impressions such as Clint Eastwood hosting “Mr. Rogers Neighborhood” and Arnold Schwarzenegger as a preacher, Kelley brings a show for everyone.

Kelley also does numerous musical acts, impersonating the likes of entertainers such as Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley and Ray Charles.

All the funds from the Kelley show will go toward paying the necessary bills to keep them running along with supporting their numerous programs.

Students of Murray State are never far away from good deeds. Gloria Alverio, senior from Murray, is a youth and nonprofit leadership major who took up an intern position with Need Line.

“I heard about all the things Need Line was doing to help the community, and it really amazed me,” said Alverio. “I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.”

Alverio is heading up the advertising for the show.

“When it comes down to it, I’m doing whatever needs to be done for it to be a successful fundraiser,” said Alverio. “I’m making phone calls, sending emails and selling tickets wherever I can.”

While Alverio and Need Line do their part in getting the show together, it comes down to the community of Murray to fill in the gaps and the seats.

Tickets for the show are $10 and can be bought in advance through Need Line or purchased at the door.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the show will start at 7 p.m.

Anyone needing additional information about the show or other Need Line programs can reach them at 753-6333.

Those looking to get involved with Need Line can visit the center at 638 S. 4th Street from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Scroll to Top