‘Rock the ’80s’ Benefit to Aid Local Patients, Families Battling Cancer

Central Pennsylvanians can “Rock the ’80s” during a concert that will benefit the Bob Perks Cancer Assistance Fund.

Local bands and performers will appear at the State Theatre, 130 W. College Ave., on Saturday beginning at 7 p.m. As advertised, the bands will perform songs from the 1980s.

The Bob Perks Cancer Assistance Fund was founded in 2006 by Doreen Perks. It was her passion for the cause that has led the organization to distribute some $1.5 million to families struggling to pay bills while fighting cancer. The fund seeks to ease the financial burden of local patients, many of whom find themselves unable to meet all of their financial obligations.

Bob Perks was only 42 when he passed away from cancer. He was a co-founder of the local Coaches vs. Cancer program.

According to Norma Keller, executive director of the fund, there has been a marked increase in the number of cancer patients applying for assistance.

“We provide dollars for lost wages, household expenses, co-pays, travel and more,” said Doreen Perks. “People get in a bind and need help that they cannot get in many places.”

The challenge for the organization is budgeting for its needs each year. It is difficult to predict how many people are going to apply for assistance. This year, the group is expecting to distribute $200,000, offering those in need $500 to defray expenses. Recipients can reapply every three months.

The local music community is once again stepping forward and volunteering its talents for the “Rock the ’80s” concert.

“We hope this April 1 event will raise $18,000,” said Keller. “In its first four years, ‘Rock the ’80s’ has raised more than $60,000.”

Event chairwoman Aimee Aiello said the show “draws a very energetic crowd. The bands do an impressive job of creating an evening that takes people back to their days of high school and college. They can’t help but be up on their feet dancing the entire time.’ Aiello is business manager of the Centre County Gazette.

While the show will take place at the State Theatre, the pre-event party is scheduled for 5 p.m. at The Makery, 209 W. Calder Way. Finger foods and beverages will be provided by Cafe 210.

The cost of the pre-event party is $35. Tickets for the concert are $35, plus a $4.50 processing fee. Visit www.thestatetheatre.org to order tickets in advance.

Sponsors for ‘Rock the ’80s’ include Cafe 210; 3WZ radio; America’s Carpet Outlet; McQuaide, Blasko, Attorneys at Law; Restek Corp.; and numerous others.

“The music is donated by 11 great local bands that look forward to playing together each year to support local cancer patients,” said Keller.

IF YOU GO 

What: ‘Rock the ’80s’ benefit concert

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 1 (preceded by pre-event party at 5 p.m.) 

Where: State Theatre, 130 W. College Ave., State College (show); The Makery, 209 W. Calder Way (pre-event party)

Tickets: www.thestatetheatre.org