About two years ago, the Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna decided to reach out to a broader audience for its annual fundraiser, booking acts with a national appeal to help drive up attendance.
After the success of humorist Jeanne Robertson last year, SCOV decided to stick to the plan, inviting Doc Scantlin and his Imperial Palms Orchestra featuring Chou Chou to perform at the Vienna Presbyterian Church in October.
The swing band has performed internationally, and their act proved successful both for the audience and SCOV, a local nonprofit organization that assists senior adults with services and enrichment opportunities. SCOV raised more than $23,000 with more than 900 audience members in attendance, many of whom were brought to their feet, dancing in the aisles throughout the show.
Doc Scantlin and his band ended the show with a rendition of "America the Beautiful," which brought the entire audience to their feet, bringing some to tears.
"It was an afternoon of fun and sophistication," said Jayne Young, SCOV's office manager. "There was high energy, high jinx. Everybody left with a smile."
SCOV has already booked next year's event, calling on Jeanne Robertson to once again entertain the crowd. The fundraiser is scheduled for 3 p.m. Oct. 27 at Vienna Presbyterian Church.
