March 1, 2014
Fighting Hunger With A Little Help From Our Friends
This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’ first performance in the United States. In honor of the legendary group, the YouChoose Band will be hosting Beatles Night, an evening of Beatles music on Saturday, March 15 at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of NJ. Beatles-lovers will have the opportunity to hear some of their favorite tracks while supporting anti-hunger efforts in New Jersey. All proceeds from the show will benefit CUMAC, Passaic County’s largest food pantry.
The YouChoose Band formed just 3 years ago with the idea of raising money for charity through themed concerts. After wide success with their 80s’ nights, the band has shifted gears to take on a new musical challenge, and the group couldn’t be more excited: “We play music, have a great time, and help lots of people. How cool is that?” says Dave Philp, Chief Organizer of the YouChoose events. Beatles Night marks the fourth major event for the YouChoose Band, who have now raised over $30,000 for CUMAC.
The YouChoose Band formed just 3 years ago with the idea of raising money for charity through themed concerts. After wide success with their 80s’ nights, the band has shifted gears to take on a new musical challenge, and the group couldn’t be more excited: “We play music, have a great time, and help lots of people. How cool is that?” says Dave Philp, Chief Organizer of the YouChoose events. Beatles Night marks the fourth major event for the YouChoose Band, who have now raised over $30,000 for CUMAC.
Beatles Night is happening at a critical time for CUMAC, as the poverty rate in New Jersey continues to climb. CUMAC’S pantry is now serving over 2,800 food insecure individuals and families every month, in addition to running several programs dedicated to alleviating the root causes of hunger. “When 1 out of every 5 children in our state are without sufficient food, we need to fix a broken system,” explains Rev. Patricia Bruger, CUMAC’s Executive Director. Facing record need for services, CUMAC recently started a mobile pantry to serve those who aren’t able to get to their pantry. As CUMAC continues to expand its work in the community, events like Beatles Night are providing much-needed support.
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With the Beatles Night just weeks away, the YouChoose Band is busy rehearsing, hoping the fundraiser might inspire others to get involved in the fight against hunger. The event is open to the public and all ages are welcome to show their support. The event will feature over 30 live Beatles tracks, BBQ Dinner from Texas Smokehouse BBQ, prizes, a photo booth, and much more. Doors open at 5:30 PM at the UACCNJ in Whippany, NJ. General admission is $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Song requests are officially sold out, but tickets are still available and can be purchasedhere. Dinner and ticket combos are available for $25. For more information, please e-mail CUMAC's Event Coordinator, Leigh Ross, at lross@cumacecho.org.