Winter is almost over, and Cherokee is ready to sing in the spring.
Cherokee Student Assistance Program hosts the seventh annual Southern gospel singing fundraiser at Cherokee Central Schools Cultural Arts Center on Saturday, Mar. 8, 5-8 p.m. Donations are expected for admission with all proceeds from the concert going to benefit the assistance program.
Program coordinator Reba Elders works with Glendon Williams of Freedom Ministries in Georgia to recruit local and regional talent who volunteer their time. This year’s concert features Gail Glynn, 3 or More for Jesus, Freedom Heirs, Frankie Wilson, Grand Glory Road, and Mac Makinzie.
The concert is a fundraising effort to bring awareness to drop-out prevention, substance abuse issues, and other forms of support for the students. Last year’s concert raised about $500, and they are hoping for much more this year. Elders said this is the first of two annual concerts to fund the program.
The second usually occurs in September at the Cherokee ceremonial grounds. The concert fundraisers continue to grow each year bringing more awareness and support to these social and health concerns.
Elders works with the North Carolina Gambling Prevention Program, Prevention Specialist Keahana Lambert-Sluder and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indian Health and Medical Division to bring awareness to diabetes, suicide, substance abuse, HIV, and Project Healthy Cherokee.
“We are thankful to the participants and organizers who donate their time and support to this wonderful program,” Elders said.
Organizers say it will be a good time for all who attend. Escape those winter blues and experience the joy of spring by listening to great music and donating to a good cause.
