Jarrod’s in downtown Mesa to hold Saturday fundraiser to stay open

☕️🎨 Jarrod’s Coffee Tea & Gallery in downtown Mesa will hold a fundraiser Saturday in an attempt to save the business.

Jarrod Martinez launched his Main Street gallery in 2012 and added a coffee shop in 2015. The venue regularly hosts art exhibits, concerts, comedy shows, fashion shows, poetry events, and more.

But a series of recent financial setbacks – including an employee who embezzled $20,000 – has left Jarrod’s on the brink of closing.

The business has launched a GoFundMe campaign here that has raised more than $7,000. Any donations on Saturday will be matched up to $5,000.

Other activities Saturday will include a 10-hour comedy ‘‘telethon’’ with 40 comedians, bands on the patio, live art, vendors, and food and drink.