3rd annual benefit recap

On May 3, 2025, Second Chance Heroes hosted our 3rd Annual Benefit — and thanks to your generous support, we raised $5,045 to help individuals experiencing homelessness and young adults aging out of foster care move forward through military enlistment and mentorship.

The event brought our community together through friendly competition, meaningful conversations, and a shared commitment to change lives.

Thank You to Our Gold Sponsors

This event wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible partnership of our Gold Sponsors:

• Trina Lehner – Realtor with EXIT Realty HGM
  Helping people buy and sell homes with care and integrity.

• Out Of The Blue Finishing Solutions
  Custom powder-coating focused on quality and collaboration.

• Buske’s Bighorn Bar & Grill
  A proud local supporter of community causes.

• The Thirsty Beaver
  A business that gives back and uplifts the community.

Your partnership was proudly recognized throughout the benefit and across our platforms — thank you for believing in our mission.

Raffle Donors

Our heartfelt thanks to the many businesses and individuals who donated baskets, gift cards, services, and experiences that made our raffle such a success. Your generosity brought excitement to the event — and hope to those we serve.

Donors included:
Green Bay Packers • Milwaukee Bucks • Milwaukee Brewers • Summerfest • Tito’s Handmade Vodka • Pizza Ranch • Ian’s Pizza • Chick-fil-A • Forward Madison FC • Madison Children’s Museum • Buck & Honey’s • Cousins Subs • The Diamond Center of Madison • WAVE Hair Studio • Marco’s Pizza • Angels Bar • Land of Natura • ANKL Rentals • Sugar River Pizza • The Market – Beaver Dam • Jimmy John’s • Leroy Meats • Tower Lanes • Beaver Dam Country Club • YMCA of Dodge County • 6th Gear • Costco • Drumlin Ridge Winery • The Bank Esports • Breuer Metal Craftsmen • MT Pockets • Mayville & Beaver Dam Hometown Pharmacies • Madison Mallards • Madison Night Mares • Salon Meraki • And many more generous supporters

A Message from Our Executive Director

During the benefit, Executive Director James Karnau shared the impact your support has made since our launch in 2022:

• 500+ meals served in Madison and Milwaukee

• 125+ winter coats donated

• 175 backpacks distributed

• 100 bouquets placed on veterans’ graves

Special Thanks

To the individuals who made this day unforgettable:

• Our board members and their spouses: Kyle Firari and Lindsey Wietzke

• Kyle W. and Diane, for working behind the scenes

• Deb Lowell, for beautifully preparing every basket

• Marielle and Madden, for your unwavering support

• Wally from WBEV, for championing our cause and sharing our story

What’s Next?

We’re currently identifying our first program candidate — and your support is helping them take life-changing steps forward. If you're interested in sponsoring a future event, donating a raffle item, or hosting a fundraiser, we'd love to connect.

Photo gallery coming soon.
Follow us on social media for event highlights and updates.