C&P News wire
CLEVELAND — A beloved Cleveland tradition returns bigger and stronger in 2026 as SOS: Strengthening Our Students prepares to host its 13th Annual Celebrity “Soup 4 the Soul” Fundraiser on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Bellavie by Marigold Catering & Events, located at 700 Beta Drive in Mayfield Village.
Known for blending purpose with fellowship, Soup 4 the Soul brings together community leaders, celebrities, educators, and families for an afternoon of inspiration, entertainment, and support for youth and families across Greater Cleveland. Last year’s event sold out, and organizers anticipate another full house.
The star-studded fundraiser will be hosted by FOX 8 News Morning Anchor Wayne Dawson, Tri-C President Dr. Michael A. Baston, and WZAK 93.1 FM radio personality Kenya Brown. Celebrity servers scheduled to appear represent a wide cross-section of local media and sports, including FOX 8 News, WKYC Channel 3, NewsChannel 5, WOIO Cleveland 19 News, CW43 Focus, and radio outlets 93.1 FM WZAK (Sam Sylk), ESPN Radio, WKNR 850 AM, WERE 1490, WOVU 95.9 FM, WABQ 105.3 FM and WABQ 1000 AM. Adding to the excitement will be Cleveland Cavaliers announcer Ahmaad Crump and community advocate Yvonne Pointer of Hope Haven.
The event is supported by major sponsors including Tri-C, RPM International, Dollar Bank, Retina Associates of Cleveland, JD Finish Line, and Jay Auto Group, among others.
Guests will enjoy samples of expertly prepared soups, live entertainment by Cleveland’s own Tina Farmer, line dancing, music, door prizes, a raffle, silent auction, and local vendors—making it a true celebration of community spirit and generosity.
Building on its commitment to holistic wellness, SOS will also host a special Mental Health Forum prior to the fundraiser from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., titled “Where Do We Go From Here?” Mental health professionals from various agencies will lead an open discussion on navigating life’s challenges and supporting emotional well-being.
In past years, Soup 4 the Soul has welcomed notable special guests such as Congresswoman Shontel Brown, Cavaliers Hall of Famer Austin Carr, The O’Jays’ Eric Nolan Grant, and legendary Glenville coach Ted Ginn, Sr.
SOS: Strengthening Our Students is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and families through education, life skills, and innovative programming. Its summer camp offerings include Social Media Literacy, Social Justice, Entrepreneurship, Culinary Arts, Mental Health, Art, and HBCU College Tours. The organization has also awarded multiple college scholarships to help young people pursue higher education.
Individual tickets are $50, with tables of ten available for $500. Tickets go on sale November 1, 2025, and early purchase is strongly encouraged.
For more information or tickets, contact Executive Director Dyeatra Williams at 216-342-4381, visit www.strengtheningourstudents.com, and follow SOS on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
