December 28, 2016: What I Can Do Now # 1
I’ve done a lot of reflecting this year with all of the folks who came out to help me finish my new CD. Some were strangers, and the rest hadn’t heard professionally produced songs from me in over 13 years. But still, people came forward to help me create a dream with no questions asked. I was astounded and humbled each time someone jumped in to help.
This got me to thinking about what I can do for others and what I want to commit to on a monthly basis.
So, in 2017, I’ve decided I’m going to sponsor one new independent musician and one new non-project based call for help campaign (an individual, family or cause that needs support in a time of need or to make a difference in the world) every month on the various crowd sourcing websites.
A small amount still matters – that’s the beauty of crowd-funding. Share a dollar and share the campaign on your social networks and your dollar and impact is instantly multiplied.
DECEMBER “WHAT I CAN DO NOW” PICKS:
BEN LEWIS RECOVERY FUND – I chose to support Chicago area musician, Ben Lewis, and his family.
Ben had a terrible fall from his rooftop in November, and by all rights, should not have survived the many injuries he sustained. His family will need a lot of help as he recovers over the next months.
I don’t know Ben, but I know other people who know and love him, and when I read the appeal from his family, I wanted to take part and spread the word. If you can help Ben and his family with a donation, please do so here.
INDEPENDENT ARTIST, ALISA AMADOR – This month, the musician I choose to sponsor was the uber-talented, young singer-songwriter / guitarist, Alisa Amador, of Massachusetts (currently studying at Bates College in Maine).
I have never heard a voice like Alisa’s (though she’s often likened to Norah Jones and Joni Mitchell, and Eva Cassidy also comes to mind as Alisa has a similar gorgeously understated and sparkling approach to lovingly singing direct to my heart). And her writing is unsurpassed. Please investigate her music, or pre-order her new CD and you’ll see what I mean.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to all, and thank you to all of you for your support and for inspiring me in so many ways.
Kellie Lin