Merriman “Comedy Jam” to benefit homeless

Friday, Jun 15, 2007
By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

Homelessness is no laughing matter for Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman. That’s why the NFL’s 2007 sack leader has devoted a special weekend to making people laugh in order to raise funds to benefit San Diego’s less fortunate. 

On June 29 and 30, Merriman will host the “Lights On Comedy Jam,” a two-day charitable event benefiting the Lights On Foundation/Pro Player Foundation, which support the San Diego Salvation Army and the Alpha Project for the Homeless.

“I have a big heart for the homeless community because I’ve walked a few miles in their shoes,” said Merriman, whose family spent sporadic stints in homeless shelters when he was a child.  “I’ve lived it.  I know what it’s like.  It’s very important for me to get out and do whatever I can to help those in need.”

The weekend will kickoff Friday afternoon with a free football clinic at the Kroc Center in downtown San Diego.  Merriman will be joined by teammates and other players from around the NFL to instruct kids ages 8-12.  Participants will be selected by the Salvation Army and the Alpha Project.

The event will also see the volunteers roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty.  On Saturday, sponsors and celebrities will restore and paint the Children’s Learning Center at the Door of Hope transitional living home for homeless mothers and their children.

Saturday night will feature a Comedy Jam at 4th and B.  DMC of the hugely popular pioneer hip-hop group Run-DMC will treat those in attendance to live music.  The event will be hosted by comedian Alex Thomas of Comedy Central’s “Comedic Blend.”  Other performers include Kathleen Madigan, who was voted Best Female Stand-Up at the American Comedy Awards and has appeared on the Jay Leno Show,  “Def Comedy Jam’s" Chris Spencer, Michael Blackson, who is also on “Def Comedy Jam” and was in the film “Next Friday” as well as Antoine Blackman from “Comic View” and “Access Granted.” 

The comedy jam will include a live and silent auction featuring autographed sports memorabilia, golf outings and trips.

Tickets for the Jam are available at  www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the House of Blues Box Office in downtown San Diego.  For more information on the event, call 760-801-1500.