EVERGREEN, Colo. (KDVR) — A new fundraiser launched for the students and families in Evergreen is earning money through a connection they say everyone shares: music.
Greg Kuzma, Director of Education Programs for Ascend Performing Arts, says the marching band community is tight-knit all across the state of Colorado, which is why they are now all stepping up to help their fellow musicians at Evergreen High School.
To Kuzma, music is the thread that binds us together.
“There is absolutely a strong connection between the musicians at Evergreen and with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps,” said Kuzma.
The Blue Knights are a Denver-based organization for high school and college band students.
“They participate in this sort of professional marching band that competes in the summer,” said Kuzma.
Students like those at Evergreen, Kuzma says, they’ve had a handful of Blue Knights come from the high school. It’s just one connection that led them to raise money in the wake of last week’s shooting.
“In a situation like this, it’s easy for us to feel helpless. But in reality, we’re not,” said Kuzma.
They’re looking to raise at least $5,000 total for Colorado Healing Fund, Kuzma personally matching every dollar up to $2,500. The money is then used to provide mental health resources for students and their families.
“So that they can develop resilience and be able to move forward from this tragic event,” said Kuzma.
The music connection doesn’t stop at shared students, either. Kuzma says in 2013, the Blue Knights were staying at Evergreen High School when a wildfire forced them to evacuate.
“Took us in, they found us shelter and they protected each and every one of our students and performers and the staff,” said Kuzma.
He says they were able to find shelter in the public library, saying the Evergreen community never left them when they needed help.
“It’s another tie that connects us together with music,” said Kuzma.
More than a decade later, he never forgot and says it’s their time to return the favor.
“Every contribution that we have put forth sends a signal that this community is not alone and that we stand with the Evergreen community,” said Kuzma.
All with the goal of keeping that musical thread tied tight.
“We’re looking forward to continuing our support for the band program there and for the teachers and students and families,” said Kuzma.
If you’d like to donate, you can do so by clicking here.
Anthony Sutton is a business strategist and writer with a passion for management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the corporate world, he shares insights on business growth, strategy, and innovation through management-opleiding.org.
