An Arlington Mill concert featuring student musicians and other local bands raised funds for Aspire! Afterschool Learning last weekend.
The Jackson Nine, a group of youth in Aspire’s no-cost summer program, rounded out an afternoon of performances at Arlington Mill Community Center plaza, which also included the adult bands APM (Always Preparing Mentally), The Stacks and Angel Roads.
“They came together to find ways to support Aspire and their community,” Aspire CEO Paula Fynboh said of the participating bands. “This music festival is a testament to their leadership, generosity and the critical role Aspire plays in [students’] lives.”
Several musicians delivered a similar message.
“Aspire rocks, and so do you guys,” said Nadeem Baig, an Arlington native and lead singer for APM, as he looked out over the crowd.
“You can achieve everything you put your minds to,” he said.
Aspire is “doing so much amazing work for kids in the community,” added Peter Rafle, a vocalist and the bass player for The Stacks.
“A lot of what Aspire is about is being able to live a good life,” he said.
After a performance by Encore staff member Amy Beach and Angel Roads, the Jackson Nine took the stage with a set that included original music.
Aspire’s summertime programming helps to fill a major gap. Nearly 1 in 2 Virginia children have no access to summer supports between school years, according to a recent report by the Afterschool Alliance.
Funds raised at the July 26 event will help to reduce the waitlist for families seeking summer Aspire programming, which is currently at an all-time high.
The summer program’s goal is to be a place for youth that “bridges the learning gap, gives them a safe place,” Fynboh said, adding that it is “where they plant the seeds where their future dreams grow.”
Others amplified those comments.
“Donate to the cause. Save the future, save the arts,” Baig said.
