Jana Marie Foundation takes its second annual Philosophy of Hope concert online this year, for a virtual event benefiting the foundation’s mental health and wellness programming. The concert, which takes place 8-9 p.m. on Saturday, blends music, storytelling and other art forms to “bring listeners on a theatrical, musical adventure.”
The theme of this year’s concert, foundation president and founder Marisa Vicere says, is relationships and resilience.
“These relationships include family and extend to friends, partners, spouses, children, co-workers, community and even society itself,” she says. “And it includes the one relationship that often gets overlooked — your relationship with yourself.”
The concert will be streamed from Pine Grove Hall in Pine Grove Mills and feature music from Ken Baxter, Liz Grove, Steve Christensen and others. Live performances mix with video clips from the 2019 concert, as well as other creative works.
“It is because of the commitment from the amazing team of musicians, producers and volunteers, including Ken Baxter, Steve Christensen, Liz Grove, Judson Mantz, Amber Hogman, Al Vicere and countless others, that we could make the transition from a major, in-person concert to an equally inspiring virtual experience,” Vicere says. “It’s been fun to watch the creative brainstorming that contributed to the evolution of the production. It’s a great example of how Jana Marie Foundation views challenges as opportunities and works with community members to address difficult situations.
“While we were disappointed to not be able to offer this event in person, we are excited for the possibilities. We can reach a larger audience and now entire families or friend groups can view together thanks to Facebook and the ability to host watch parties. It’s a great way to virtually get together with loved ones near and far and build lasting memories.”
There is no ticket cost for the concert this year, but donations will be accepted via the foundation’s website, janamariefoundation.org. The foundation is hoping to raise $20,000 to support its efforts in “opening minds and saving lives.”
Funds from the concert will directly impact the foundation’s mental health-related programming, which Vicere points out is more important than ever during the pandemic.
“During this time, focusing on mental health and wellness has never been more important,” she says. “Jana Marie Foundation has found innovative ways to expand our programs and spread awareness for the importance of self-care, including extensive use of online and social media-based delivery. This funding will allow us to continue to open minds and save lives.
“The work of Jana Marie Foundation helps spark meaningful conversations, builds connections with self and others and promotes mental health and wellness. This evening captures the spirit of the Jana Marie Foundation and will leave you filled with hope for weeks to come. We all deserve to live, laugh, love and play to our fullest. By supporting Jana Marie Foundation you are growing the confidence of young people, equipping then with tools to overcome adversity and breaking the silence that often surrounds mental health…” Vicere adds.
To attend the Philosophy of Hope concert, be sure to follow Jana Marie Foundation’s Facebook page, where the concert will take place over Facebook Live, at facebook.com/janamariefoundation.
