Local non-profit creates event to unite community and highlight importance of mentoring

EUREKA, Calif. (KIEM) – Local musicians donated their voices and talents to bring attention to the importance of mentors in the lives of youth.

Non-profits such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of the North Coast have had to get creative amid the pandemic.

Alli Trice with Big Brothers Big Sisters matches mentors and mentees – she says their organization thought of a way to raise funds for their program – while creating a sense of community during these trying times.

“The Big Humboldt Jam is really a great way to celebrate community, celebrate mentoring, and celebrate art and music even though we can’t all be physically together,” she said.  

Groups like ‘Object Heavy’ and ‘The Duet’ featured with local great Bobby Vega – donated their time.

The historic Eagle House in Old Town donated their venue for the virtual concert.

Musician Brian Swislow says coming together for a cause like youth is what Humboldt represents.

“It encompasses who I am in Humboldt so, yeah, kids, yeah, they need us,” he said. “For children to see this happen it’s just crucial because music is like one of the biggest forms of healing.”

Local musician Jeromy Lord says, mentors helped shape the person he has become. 

“It’s wonderful to have good positive role models in your life, so you know how to proceed as you grow up,” he said.  

Lord will take the stage for the first time in his career with his music mentor Bobby Vega, who he says, is a bass legend in his own right.

The event is will live stream this Saturday at 7 p.m., tickets are $15 – and can be purchased online.

A raffle for gift cards, electronic items, among other prizes will be available in several tiers or packages, all proceeds will be used to fund the local mentorship program.

Program Manager Erika Garcia Lopez with BBBS of the North Coast says, kids need someone to talk to, hang out with and share precious moments with someone they look up too.

“You’re supporting an important cause, your supporting mentoring in the community,” she said.

The non-profit hopes their inaugural event will become a yearly celebration. 

For a full list of performers and more information click here, to become a mentor or a mentee click here.