Carla Clark | For The Republic The screen during the first the Not-So Family Feud fundraiser held by Turning Point at the Commons, Columbus, Ind., Thursday, October 19, 2023.
What 48-year-old TV game show is serving as the model for Turning Point Domestic Violence Services’ annual November fundraiser again this year?
Our survey says…
The “Not-so Family Feud” will be held at the Commons on Thursday, with the doors and cash bar opening at 5:30 p.m., and dinner beginning at 6 p.m. The $60 ticket price includes the meal, as well as admission.
Dinner will be prepared by Purely Paula Catering, while the cash bar will be operated by the Cozy Lounge. A portion of the proceeds from cash bar sales will be donated to Turning Point, accord to the organization’s vice-president of resource development Elizabeth Jones.
At 6:30 p.m., the nonprofit will present a brief annual report to the community before the game begins. While there is certainly a competition spirit among players, Turning Point president Whittney Loyd says the event is mostly intended to deliver laughs, as well as promote camaraderie and teamwork among co-workers.
“Our game is probably a little bit more cleaner and family-friendly (than the TV program),” Jones said.
The format is very similar to the game show that has been televised since 1976, she said. It is essentially contestants battling for correct answers to match general surveys.
The six competing teams are Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. teachers (the returning champions), the Columbus Education Coalition, German American Bank, Kenny Glass, Centra Credit Union and Turning Point. Returning as hosts are Mickey Kim and Alan Trisler.
Last year’s event, which attracted 275 audience members, raised $64,700. Turning Point president Whittney Loyd said she would like to raise $70,000 or more this year for her nonprofit’s work to prevent domestic and dating violence. But Jones says the agency would be happy if they receive about the same amount as last year.
Other than domestic violence services, some of the funds raised will help to fund two scholarships that will be announced during May’s after-prom.
Audience members are encouraged to cast a vote for their favorite team, and back it up with a donation, Jones said.
“The voting is very important because it will be a lifeline for one of these teams eliminated in the first round,” she said. “Whoever earns the most votes in the first round will get to come back and play the second round.
As the competition continues into the second and third rounds, teams will gradually be eliminated until one emerges as champion.
Since this version of Family Feud is being held on a weeknight, Jones says some tweaking was made to help move the event along.
“We’ve tightened the process, so we anticipate the game show should end by 8:30,” she said.
Prior to last year, Turning Point was successful in refashioning another old TV game show, “The Newlywed Game,” as its November fundraiser for six consecutive years. A new champion emerged annually for the first five years, with a battle of champions competing during the sixth and final year.
“We decided to retire the Newlywed Game while it was still on a high note,” she added.
Those interested in attending the “Not so Family Feud” can go online to Turning Point’s website to buy tickets, inquire about sponsorships or cast a vote/donation if you are unable to attend but still wish to make a contribution.
Turning Point’s services include a 24-hour emergency shelter, education programs, and a variety of non-residential services such as information and representation on legal matters such as protective orders.
