As nonprofit organizations face increased fundraising needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, 25 performers with Centre County or Penn State connections are coming together — while staying physically apart — to support Centre County United Way's 28 partner agencies.
Centre County United Way will host #LIVEUNITEDLive, a Facebook Live concert, beginning at 6 p.m. on April 24 at facebook.com/centrecountyunitedway. The concert will be accompanied by an opportunity for community members to donate online.
Penn State has designated the Centre County United Way as its charity of choice for more than 40 years.
United Way and its partner agencies serve education, financial and health needs for one of every four Centre County residents each year. With the coronavirus pandemic's impact, those needs are increasing, while at the same time many nonprofits cannot hold the typical fundraisers that provide substantial support each year. United Way's Trash to Treasure sale, traditionally held at Beaver Stadium and one of its largest single fundraisers, was among those canceled.
All performers during the Facebook Live concert will perform from their homes or other spaces where they can practice physical distancing.
State College radio personality Jeff Brown, a lecturer in the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications who serves as the general manager of CommRadio, will host the event. Brown, the longtime morning drive host on WBUS-FM (99.5), served as honorary chair of the 2019 United Way campaign.
“Thanks to all of the bands for opening their hearts and once again sharing of themselves for the betterment of our community,” Brown said. “It came as absolutely no surprise whatsoever that the music community jumped at the chance to help.”
Performers scheduled to participate include:
- Jason Adams
- Anchor and Arrow
- Richard Biever and Family
- Biscuit Jam
- The Brannen Family
- Kevin Briggs
- Donny Burns and the 3rd Degree
- Luke Cimbala
- Molly Countermine & Rene Witzke
- Caryn Dixon Jellen
- Jeff Gibble
- Hops & Vines
- Kristi Jean and Her Ne’er Do Wells
- Joah & Family
- Scott and Jack Mangene
- Jesse Tyler Moore
- John I. Thompson
- Pure Cane Sugar
- Rama-Lama
- Raven and the Wren
- Bill Ryan
- Sgt. Bob
- Chris Strait
- Bill Strayer
- Elizabeth Kennedy Webb & Rene Witzke
While unavailable for the concert, Eric Ian Farmer will donate 50% of proceeds from purchases of his music until May 2 to the Centre County United Way.
Donations to the Centre County United Way may be made online at any time.