August, 21, 2010 the Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania sponsored some Blues for the Homeless Veterans Stand Down.
The original Stand Down for homeless veterans was modeled after the Stand Down concept used during the Vietnam War to provide a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations. At secure base camp areas, troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and dental care, mail and receive letters, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends in a safe environment. Stand Down afforded battle-weary soldiers the opportunity to renew their spirit, health and overall sense of well-being.
That is the purpose of the Stand Down for homeless veterans, and achieving those objectives requires a wide range of support services and time. The program is successful because it brings these services to one location, making them more accessible to homeless veterans.
The Blues society is always looking for musicians to donate their time for the veterans. All are welcome to come and play and in support of our veterans who have committed to our freedom and are now down on their luck.
------------------------------
MOVE! to the Blues for the Fisher House - 05-31-09
On May 31, the Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania partnered with the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System’s MOVE! team (Managing Overweight and obesity in Veterans and Employees) , hosting an afternoon of blues entertainment in an effort to raise money toward the construction of a Fisher House, while raising community awareness of the need to be active. A Fisher House, to be built at the University Drive division of the VA, is a home away from home, a place for veterans and their family members to stay during a veteran’s intensive medical care
Three popular blues bands of Pittsburgh donated their time and talent. A special thanks to: Bubs McKeg - Navy veteran, winner of the Western PA Blues Society IBC Competition; Shot O' Soul; featuring Jim Franciscus, navy veteran; Ms. Freddye and Blue Faze; winners of the West Virginia Blues Society IBC Competition, featuring Chris Nacy, air force veteran (Ms. Freddye Stover and John Erskine of Blue Faze are employees of VA Pittsburgh) who donated their time for the cause. We also thank the Lawrenceville Moose who generously opened their doors free of charge. The Lawrenceville VFW bought, prepared, and served food with all proceeds benefiting Fisher House.
Community partnerships were formed. Many organizations, restaurants, salons, sport venues, and cultural venues donated admission tickets, memberships, gift certificates and baskets toward a Chinese auction.
Event admission, 50/50 raffle, Chinese auction, food sales, and miscellaneous contributions resulted in a total donation of $2,147.00.
The MOVE! team and the Blues Society have been asked to continue partnership, providing a similar venue in various parts of the city. Tentatively, a late summer event and early fall event will be considered.
| BLUES IS A HEALER TOUR - 11-11-08 |
 |
|
BLUES IS A HEALER TOUR - BSWPA ENTERTAINS AREA’S VETERANS - A plan to show appreciation to our local veterans began to formulate on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2007. It was met with overwhelming support by the Society and by the local Blues musicians. The first stop on the tour, December 23, took our traveling assortment of players, fans, well-wishers, volunteers, and family members to the Highland Drive VA Medical Center. >> Read More |