CONCORD, Calif. (July 12, 2024) – Yellow Roof Foundation's annual “Raise the Roof” fundraiser reached new heights this year, bringing in more than $1,015,000 to support the development of affordable rental housing for families and individuals at risk of homelessness. The sold-out event, held on June 23, 2024, at The CIA at Copia in Napa, featured performances by country music stars Lee Brice, Jerrod Niemann, and Nick Norman, making it an unforgettable evening under the stars.
Yellow Roof is a 501(c)(3) public charity founded by Dave and Lori Sanson, owners of Concord, Calif.-based DeNova Homes. The organization has built several communities in the Bay Area to provide affordable housing to those who are hardworking, contributing members of society but are experiencing hard times due to circumstances beyond their control and are at risk of becoming unhoused. As the serious housing crisis continues to grow in California, especially in the affordable housing arena, so has the population who may be on the verge of homelessness.
At “Raise the Roof,” sponsors and their guests, totaling 220 people, enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, a lively auction, and an inspiring program featuring testimonials from three residents who have benefitted from Yellow Roof's housing and financial counseling programs. These residents shared their journeys from living day-to-day at risk of homelessness to achieving stability and success. Highlights included a young resident being named the most improved student in his school, another who graduated high school with honors and is now pursuing nursing studies at Los Medanos College, and another who received a scholarship to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Lee and Sara Brice were honored with the 2024 Champion Award by the Yellow Roof Board for their exceptional compassion and support. This marks the third time the Brices have contributed their time and talent to "Raise the Roof," each time bringing equally talented friends to create a memorable singer-songwriter experience for the attendees.
The concert portion of the evening was attended by more than 400 guests in Copia’s stunning outdoor theater. The show began with a powerful performance of “Somebody Sees You,” a song written for Yellow Roof Foundation by Sara Brice and De’Leah Shane, performed by one of Yellow Roof’s residents. Lee Brice, Jerrod Niemann, and Nick Norman then took the stage, captivating the audience with their heartfelt storytelling and beautiful songs.
“Raise the Roof” has become a highly anticipated event, selling out in record time this year. The funds raised will go directly towards the completion of eight units at Gonsalves Landing in Oakley, the construction of two units in Davis, and the planning and design of an upcoming community in Fairfield.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude and blown away by the amount of support we received at ‘Raise the Roof,’” said Lori Sanson, President of Yellow Roof. “It was a magical evening highlighted by the incredible performances of Lee Brice, Jerrod Niemann, and Nick Norman. Every penny raised will be used to help those in need secure safe, affordable places to call home.”
