Ypsi artist brings Ann Arbor and Ypsi businesses, artists together for Ozone House benefit

A benefit called “Hug ‘n’ Shake” at Electric Eye Cafe, 811 N. Main St. in Ann Arbor, will bring area artists, nonprofits, and businesses together to raise money for Ann Arbor nonprofit Ozone House.

The event will be one of the first for the newly opened cafe just north of downtown Ann Arbor. Ypsilanti artist and event organizer Alexa Dietz says she had been wanting to put on a benefit for Ozone House for years. It’s a cause close to her heart because she benefited from the nonprofit’s services when she was in high school.

“Ozone House is the only youth shelter in the county, but they do a lot more than that,” Dietz says. “They offer art and photography classes and work development and all these really great things for people who don’t have another outlet or a home over their head.”

Because Ozone House is all about providing shelter for at-risk youth, Dietz says the theme of the fundraiser will be “Home,” including a silent auction featuring art on the theme of “home” or lack thereof. Also helping to raise money will be a raffle of items and gift certificates from local businesses such as Sidetrack, The Lunch Room, and HOMES Brewery.

Dietz says the name of the event, “Hug ‘n’ Shake,” comes from an in-joke with a friend, because they “hug and then jiggle” when they greet each other. She intends the benefit to double as a 30th birthday bash “like no other” for herself, and she’s planning it to be reminiscent of house parties she threw when she was younger, with local bands playing in the basement.

Ypsi-based musicians and DJs The Wax Kings will provide music during the event, and Bona Sera will provide cocktails.

The benefit is scheduled for 5-11 p.m. Aug. 19. There is no cover charge, but a portion of proceeds raised through the raffle, silent auction, and alcohol sales will be donated to Ozone House.

More information is available here.

Sarah Rigg is a freelance writer and editor in Ypsilanti Township. You may reach her at sarahrigg1@gmail.com.

Photos courtesy of Alexa Dietz.