It was hard to miss – the five-foot tall, ruby-red sequined shoe in the Balboa Theatre’s front lobby at the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus (SDGMC) recent LUV Madonna show. Strategically placed, it called out for show patrons to donate to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego. And, donate they did with more than $650 collected during the weekend.
“Everybody had a blast pitching in – it was definitely a fun way to raise money for a great organization that is out there helping kids every day,” said SDGMC Vice President Caron Woodward.
For each SDGMC concert, the chorus selects a special community organization that has had a major impact on San Diego as well as on individual chorus members. Past partners have included a women’s shelter, a youth arts program, a senior memory care center and a meal delivery agency. The Boys & Girls Clubs were selected because several chorus members are alumni of their programs.
“It’s so wonderful to see the impact we can have on young people when we reach out to them and really make a difference,” said Vice President of Development Michelle Malin. “The chorus manager, a choreographer and several singers and dancers have all been part of our programs.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego change lives with quality youth programs and guidance in a safe, affordable and fun environment through 17 community-based sites. They serve kids ages five to 18 years-old with academic achievement, character development and physical fitness programs.
“We are so proud to have partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs,” added Carlos Salazar, SDGMC Outreach Director. “San Diego is a better city thanks to their hard work and the dedication they have to young people.”
SDGMC is one of the largest and oldest gay choruses in the world, having entertained audiences for nearly 30 years. Its 200 members embrace a mission of creating a positive musical experience through exciting performances that engage audiences, build community support and provide a dynamic force for social change.
Anyone interested in singing, dancing or volunteering with SDGMC may go to www.sdgmc.org for more details. Info Night will be held on Thursday, Sept. 3 at 7 p.m. at 2961 1st Avenue in San Diego. The chorus’s next performance will be the premier concert of its 50-voice Chamber Chorale performing classical and modern masterworks on Thursday, Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. at the North Chapel, Liberty Station. Tickets are now on sale at www.sdgmc.org.
