Concert for Cancer

The idea arose in my Junior year of High School. My mother was just diagnosed with cancer, and I needed to help in some way. I contacted our local American Cancer Society center, The American Cancer Society of Dutchess County, and proposed the idea, asking if they would appreciate our large donation. They were more then happy to hear about this idea, and told me to run with it. I scouted locations to hold a substantial crowd, and found the Mid-Hudson Civic Center, in Poughkeepsie, NY which holds 3,000+ patrons. I got a great deal on renting the location because of the cause I am doing it for. All the money rasied for the entire event is made by our club members. We sell cancer awareness ribbons all the time to our school and different schools, hold bake sales, fundraisers, dinners, many many activites to raise funds as well as recieving corporate sponsorship. I have been writing to almost every company who donates to raise the necissary funds, and have been sucessful so far. More recently, I have been signing artists and performers to share their talent at the concert, which costs $30 a ticket to attend. All artists and bands have donated their time to perform for the cause. As of now we have 4 dance compaines performing, a Disney singer, numerous local bands, national touring orchestras, and special guest apperances. Along with the performers, we have numerous cancer survivors to tell their story, doctors to speak about cancer, and numerous other presentations to raise awareness and give help to those who need it. This event is not only a fun and exciting concert, but its educational and inspirational raising cancer awareness in our region. Our goal is to raise $50,000+ to donate to the American Cancer Society, and at the rate this event is growing, we should have no problem with that. Interact Club's motto is "Service Above Self," and I really am serving the community in many aspects running such a beneficial event.