Surf and Music Scenes Come Together to Benefit Homeless Youth In San Diego

by Danny Jensen · 2010-07-11 07:37:00 UTC
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Lately the media spotlight seems to be increasingly aimed at homeless teens and at-risk youth, whether it's CNN on the streets of Denver or a New York Daily News story helping a teen graduate. While the increased exposure is vital to raising awareness of the issue, the hope is that public interest doesn't wane once the news cycle ends, but instead the stories serve as catalysts for action.

Recently in San Diego surfers and musicians helped focus that news spotlight to inspire change by hosting a benefit concert to raise money for StandUp for Kids, a national non-profit that provides services to homeless youth. The sixth annual Switchfoot Bro-Am featured a surf contest, a live concert and an auction, all of which managed to raise over $210,000 for local chapters of StandUp for Kids. The event sounds like an amazing way to educate a young audience about the challenges faced by people their own age and provide them with an opportunity to get involved with an amazing organization dedicated to improving the lives of homeless and street kids.

For those who still think that all musicians are only concerned with decibels and groupies, listen to what Rick Koca, founder and CEO of StandUp for Kids, has to say about Switchfoot, the band responsible for organizing the event: "StandUp for Kids is extremely proud that Switchfoot has chosen our Southern California programs as the beneficiary of their Bro-Am again this year. Their dedication, support, and commitment to the homeless and street kids of Southern California is unequaled. For Jon and the band it isn't just about raising funds, but getting to know the kids and the volunteers."

Take a few moments to read the heartfelt and inspiring blog post written by Jon Foreman, lead singer and guitarist for Switchfoot, and you'll see a commitment to addressing youth homelessness that goes way beyond headlines and headliners. This year's Bro-Am may be over, but there are plenty of ways to get involved with StandUp for Kids no matter where you live. Check out the video below from Causecast to learn more about the event.

Photo credit: danflo

Danny Jensen has written for TakePart.com and Intent.com and has volunteered with a variety of homeless organizations and school gardening programs.
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