Give A Hoot Comedy Club in Gaithersburg has surpassed a major milestone, raising more than $100,000 for nonprofit organizations since opening its doors in 2023. The club, located at 16143 Shady Grove Rd., opened on January 20, 2023 as Montgomery County’s first full-time comedy club. From the beginning, the venue was built around a simple mission known as “Comedy For the Community,” using live entertainment to raise money and awareness for local nonprofit organizations.
Co-founders Irwin Weinstein and Courtland Shaffer-Kelly said reaching the six-figure mark reflects the collective effort of the club’s staff, performers, and the Montgomery County community. “We are so proud of our team and their support of the club in helping it achieve its mission,” they said. Weinstein added that community support has played a critical role in the club’s ability to give back. “The support of the people of Montgomery County has been such a key part of making the club able to help so many great organizations.”
The milestone was also recognized during a celebration at the club this past Friday, where State Senator Cheryl Kagan was on hand to honor Give A Hoot and its impact on the community. The achievement comes after several years of steady fundraising growth. The club raised more than $25,000 for local causes in 2023, followed by more than $30,000 in 2024 and $33,500 in 2025, bringing the total to nearly $90,000 by the start of this year before recently surpassing the $100,000 mark.
Give A Hoot was founded with the goal of creating a comedy venue that also served as a platform for local charities. Many shows are organized in partnership with nonprofit groups, with portions of ticket sales helping support their missions. The accomplishment also carries emotional significance for the club following the sudden passing of co-founder Ken Watter on December 4, 2023. Watter, known to many as “DC’s Funniest Tax Accountant,” played a central role in shaping the club’s identity and community-focused approach.
Beyond its charitable impact, Give A Hoot has also become a growing entertainment destination in Montgomery County, hosting nationally known comedians, themed comedy nights, magic shows, game nights, and special appearances from performers such as J.J. Walker of Good Times and Michael Winslow of Police Academy. As the club continues to expand its programming, the milestone reinforces the original vision behind the venue, using laughter as a way to bring people together while supporting organizations that serve the community.
