A concert will be held on Jan. 27 at the IMRC Center in Stewart Commons. Local bands Noise Candy and Free Parking are performing from 6 to 8 p.m. Entry is free. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) organized the event in collaboration with the Center for Student Involvement (CSI), UMaine Student Life and WMEB 91.9 FM. 

The on-campus venue is able to accommodate up to 400 students. Those in attendance are encouraged to bring clothing and/or non-perishable food to donate. The UMaine Feminist Collective is arranging the item drives. 

Several nonprofit organizations will be showcased at the concert. Advocates of Food and Medicine, Needlepoint Sanctuary, Health Equity Alliance and Black Bear Mutual Aid Fund will be tabling alongside other philanthropic groups soon to be announced. Students will have an opportunity to connect with members of each nonprofit to learn about their efforts and how to participate. 

Coordinator for Diversity and Inclusion Taylor Ashley and Coordinator for Student Involvement Brendan Trachsel both played a major role in making the concert appealing and accessible. They hope for a good turnout and that students feel informed about what the community service programs offer. 

“We’ve decided to let the organizations speak for themselves and share their mission. The call to action is showing folks how they can get involved,” said Ashley.  

If you plan to enjoy the live music and support these nonprofits, be sure to check in on Campus Groups. Concert for a Cause will be the first event to kick off ODI’s Social Justice Saturday program. Next up, is the Defamation Experience on Feb. 10 from noon to 3:30 p.m.