Synergy Comedy Show to Bring Local Talent and NYC Headliner to Salida

Annual fundraiser supports mental health resources for food and beverage workers in Chaffee County

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Synergy in the Service Industry (SITSI) is hosting its annual comedy fundraiser on February 28th at A Church in Salida, Colorado. The event will feature New York City comedian Carmen Lagala, known for her appearances on 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' and viral 'Don't Tell Comedy' set, alongside local talent Zakk Byers, Jon Treat, and Synergy board member Kit Rivers. The fundraiser aims to raise money to support Synergy's mission of providing accessible and affordable mental health care for food and beverage workers in Chaffee County.

Why it matters

The hospitality industry experiences high rates of substance abuse disorders, anxiety, and depression, underscoring the urgent need for mental health resources. Synergy's work helps remove financial barriers to care, normalizing conversations around wellness and fostering a healthier workplace culture.

The details

Synergy directly covers the cost of mental health care sessions for eligible Chaffee County food and beverage workers, making support more accessible. The fundraiser also includes a silent auction with a unique prize: a 2027 Amalfi Coast sailing trip departing from Naples, Italy.

  • The comedy fundraiser is scheduled for February 28, 2026.

The players

Carmen Lagala

A New York City comedian known for her appearances on 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' and viral 'Don't Tell Comedy' set.

Zakk Byers

A local comedian performing at the Synergy fundraiser.

Jon Treat

A local comedian performing at the Synergy fundraiser.

Kit Rivers

A Synergy board member and former performer at The Second City in Chicago.

Synergy in the Service Industry (SITSI)

A non-profit organization that removes financial barriers to mental health and substance use treatment for Chaffee County food and beverage workers.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Tickets for the Synergy fundraiser are available at Sitsi.org.

The takeaway

Organizations like Synergy play a vital role in filling the gaps left by traditional healthcare systems, providing tailored support and building trust within the service industry community.