Westend concert to benefit AIDS organization

An AIDS benefit is scheduled for December 19, at 7 p.m., weather permitting, at Valley Bible Church in Rosburg.

Stephanie Wise of Naselle, now a student at Washington State University, is hosting the event which will feature Christmas music by local artists including Carl Wirkkala and the Ghost Town Boys, Natalie Berrios and more.

Last year, Wise hosted the event as part of her high school senior project and decided to do it again. A few years ago, she said, it came out that AIDS is one of the biggest concerns in the world today.

“I do believe this community thinks about it. Just because it’s not happening in our back yard, doesn’t mean it doesn’t affect us at all.” All money raised will go to “Keep a Child Alive,” (KCA) an organization that helps children and parents with AIDS in Africa.

Attendees to the concert will learn more about what KCA does and where the money goes.

“I hope that will stimulate them to give more,” Wise said.

There are many organizations that do work for AIDS, but after researching many, Wise found KCA worked with the people that need it the most. “I was really excited about that.

“It’s easiest to donate to someone that is completely helpless,” Wise said. Kids with the disease can’t get their medications on their own. This organization ensures they have what they need. Of the 33 million people worldwide with AIDS, 60 percent are in Africa. That is where the pandemic is the worst.

The concert last year raised $865, and Wise said she is hoping for more this year. All donors will receive an AIDS ribbon, and the donor of the biggest donation will receive an AIDS gift basket.

Wise asks for check donations so they know who made the contributions. “Donations are requested but are not required,” Wise said.

For more information on Friday’s concert, contact Wise at (360) 484-7796.