40th WellsFest raises record $100,000 for new nonprofit

JANS – Wells Memorial United Methodist Church, the producer of WellsFest, one of Mississippi’s best known community festivals, presented a check for $100,000 to WellsFest CARES, a nonprofit providing a safety net for musicians in need. WellsFest CARES was the beneficiary of the 2024 festival, the fortieth the church has produced. The event was held September 28 at Jamie Fowler Boyll Park. 

Festival leaders said $100,000 eclipsed the previous record for funds raised at any previous WellsFest by more than 25 percent. 

WellsFest CARES was established in 2023 to honor the musicians who have donated their time and talent to perform at every WellsFest. The organization supports musicians facing challenging times, ensuring they have access to resources during financial hardships. Managed by The Community Foundation for Mississippi, WellsFest CARES operates independently of Wells Church.

Keith Ferguson, organizer of WellsFest CARES, said, “We are deeply grateful to Wells United Methodist Church, our many donors, and attendees for supporting the festival and the fund. Musicians give so much to enrich our lives and this fund is a way to give back when they need it most.”

Wells Church senior pastor Rev. Susannah Grubbs Carr said, “The leadership at Wells Church sends heartfelt thanks to the hundreds of volunteers, both within and outside our congregation, who make WellsFest possible. Over the past 40 years, WellsFest has raised more than $1.5 million for area nonprofits assisting families and individuals in need. Our church views WellsFest as a love offering to the community. The greatest reward is the spirit of unity and generosity the festival fosters for worthy causes.”

Each year, Wells Church selects a different nonprofit social service agency to receive the festival’s net proceeds. The 2024 festival featured performances by 12 Mississippi musical groups, a 5K run-walk, a pet parade, a silent auction, and a children’s play area. Church leaders said the event drew several thousand attendees.

For more information about Wells Church and its ministries, call 601-353-0658 or visit wellschurch.org. To learn more about WellsFest CARES, contact Keith Ferguson at 601-201-7745 or visit wellsfestcares.org.