Make a difference in the lives of Chilliwack's homeless youth by attending the Benefit Concert on Jan. 30 at the Royal Hotel.
Organized by local musician Chantele Delaine, all proceeds from the benefit will go to the Chilliwack Cyrus Centre, which provides food, shelter, services and resources to vulnerable and homeless youth.
Inspired by her encounters and interactions with the homeless population, Delaine has experience organizing a variety of fundraising efforts. She recently spearheaded a benefit concert for The 5 and 2 Ministries in Abbotsford, and now hopes to do the same for those in-need in Chilliwack.
As a musician, these type of events combine two of her greatest passions, creating music and helping others. Even within the lyrics of her original music, she writes about peace, love, understanding, and reaching out.
Her and husband Dan McGuire started Acoustic Recourse as a duo, which has since grown to include six musicians. They regularly entertain local audiences at farmer's markets and special events with a mix of classic and contemporary rock, blues and pop music.
"Sometimes, once the Christmas season is over, people take their focus off those in need," Delaine explained. "But it's still so cold outside, and I don't want them to be forgotten."
Furthermore, "a lot of people don't realize that the Cyrus Centre is community funded," said Executive Director Les Talvio. "We rely on donations and fundraisers."
The organization has been open in Chilliwack since September of 2014. It serves as a safe, temporary place for homeless youth to stay while working on a long-term solution. There, they can access a plethora of services including life and employment skill-building, counselling, meals, clothing, showers and laundry.
Talvio was really impressed by Delaine's efforts and the community's response thus far.
"It's really cool. These kinds of creative, grassroots initiatives certainly go a long way," Talvio said.
Importantly, events like the Jan. 30 benefit concert bring more than much-needed funds to the organization, they raise awareness.
In addition to the musical entertainment, the benefit will include guest speakers from Cyrus Centre food and drinks, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and more.
Monetary donations for the Cyrus Centre are greatly appreciated, and a donation bin will be on-site. According to Talvio, most appreciated donations at this time are: non-perishable food items, gift cards for grocery and/or department stores, and adult-sized pyjamas.
The benefit takes place at the Royal Hotel (45886 Wellington Ave) from 7 to 9 p.m.
Tickets are $12 which include a non-alcoholic beverage and appetizer. Pre-purchase tickets via email at cyrusbenefit@outlook.com or by calling 604-799-2912. Remaining tickets will be available at the door.
