PRESS RELEASE: Champions for HD to Host 8th Annual Benefit Concert August 17 to Support Families Impacted by Huntington’s Disease

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Shelby (Lentz) Smithers Founder & President, Champions for HD 

shelby@championsforhd.org 

(269) 235-9740 

Champions for HD to Host 8th Annual Benefit Concert August 17 to Support Families Impacted by Huntington’s Disease

Paw Paw, MI – Champions for HD will host its 8th Annual Benefit Concert on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 2:00–5:00 PM at The Lucky Wolf Theater in downtown Paw Paw. This signature event brings together live music, community, and purpose to raise funds for Huntington’s Disease (HD) and Juvenile Huntington’s Disease (JHD) advocacy, research, and family support.

Founded by singer-songwriter Shelby (Lentz) Smithers, who was diagnosed with Huntington’s Disease in 2017, Champions for HD was born from personal tragedy and transformed into a mission of strength. In 2020, her 14-year-old sister Breanna passed away from Juvenile HD. “I wanted to take a negative situation and turn it into something powerful,” said Smithers. “Through Champions for HD, I hope no one has to fight this disease alone.”

This year’s concert will feature live performances from Delaney Lentz, Corey Zumsteg, Bernice Rodgers, and the Shelby Lentz Band, with a powerful on-stage group photo moment for anyone wearing blue (HD awareness) or purple (JHD awareness) or Champions for HD apparel. Attendees can also enjoy a silent auction, raffle prizes, merchandise, and food and beverages available from The Lucky Wolf Café (menu).

Event photography by Emma Tavolacci

Can’t attend? Watch live at youtube.com/@championsforhd8185

TICKETS

Tickets are on sale at www.championsforhd.org/events. Prices will increase slightly at the door, and same-day entry is welcome if the event does not sell out.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

• Gold Sponsor: All Star Family Chiropractic

• Bronze Sponsors: Harding’s Plainwell & Honor Credit Union

  
  

AUCTION & DONATIONS

Champions for HD is still accepting tax-deductible donations for the silent auction or raffle. Interested donors can email shelby@championsforhd.org or call (269) 235-9740.

This year’s fundraising goal is $10,000, with all proceeds supporting HD/JHD families across the country.

About Champions for HD 

Champions for HD is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, and providing direct support to individuals and families affected by Huntington’s Disease (HD) and Juvenile Huntington’s Disease (JHD). Since 2018, Champions for HD has supported more than 90 families impacted by HD.

The name “Champions for HD” was inspired by founder Shelby Lentz’s love of the Rocky film series. Her original song “Champion”  has become an anthem of courage.

To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit www.championsforhd.org.