Songs for Sight

why it's important:

The organization is holding a multi-media concert at The Alys Stephens Center May 17, 2009. The event is our fundraiser, with 50% of the money going to the University of Alabama at Birmingham Low Vision Rehabilitation Center, and the other 50% to go towards optic nerve research. The funds will create a Low Vision Support Group, provide low vision technology for needy young adults, and provide orientation and mobility services for those with low vision. They will also help jump-start an optic nerve imaging research center to help the doctors have a greater understanding and give them an in depth look at the optic nerve.

The Songs for Sight event that will be held in May is a musical and multi-media event where audience members will actually get to experience low vision. The concert will feature such artists as Sara Evans, Elliot Morris, Grace Potter, Amanda Tapley, as well as three Broadway acts from New York and LA and a gospel choir. We have over 30 corporate sponsors and are hoping to raise between 4 to 500,000 dollars.

the plan of action:

In fall 2007, I presented my idea to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Dept. of Ophthalmology. The Head of the department, along with the President of the University, enthusiastically embraced the project.

I organized a Junior Board of Directors who would be our young advocates. They have visited the Low Vision Center and are actively involved with a letter writing campaign to raise funds within the community and beyond.

We proceeded to find a director and venue, as well as possible event dates and the event artists. Because I have been actively involved in musical theatre in our community and regionally, I have had the opportunity to meet and get to know many
respected actors, musicians, writers, and directors.

We wrote to prospective performers and over time acquired an impressive list of entertainers that would make the event memorable and impacting.

I attended many community business and charity meetings to present our organization and received a tremendous response. So far we have raised over $300,000.00 with our goal being $500,000.00

Our event will take place on May 17 at the beautiful Alys Stephens Center.

how you can get involved:

We would welcome other teenagers to join the Junior Board and participate in the letter writing fund raiser. Others can help by promoting the event and becoming more aware of the low vision community. Another meaningful way to help is to view our website, Songsforsight.org.