Rocking to help prevent child abuse
KALAMAZOO, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – The statistics can be staggering. Everyday, nearly five children die as the result of child abuse. Three out of four are under the age of four. A report of child abuse is made every ten seconds.
Now a new event is coming to Kalamazoo where you can pitch in to fight child abuse, and have a rocking good time doing so.
Wright for Kids is planning a big bash in downtown Kalamazoo.
For children, the Arcadia Creek Festival site is all about fun, and over the weekend, when the music starts, the adults will be rocking out for the kids.
"It's a dream come true to have this kind of venue," said Bill Wright of the Wright for Kids Foundation.
For Bill Wright, seeing rock groups Loverboy and Kansas take the stage will be more than just a summer concert, it will be about continuing his campaign to fight child abuse.
"As I went on, I thought why not involve the entire community, and do a concert so the entire community can have great affordable fun," said Wright.
Wright is a well-known face in West Michigan. Each year his foundation raises thousands for abused kids. Typically, Wright hosts a fund-raising dinner, but he says he needed a break from telling his own story of abuse. And so the Wright for Kids, Rocks for Kids event was born.
"When I was beat, there was no awareness about child abuse," said Wright. "People turn a blind eye to it, they don't intentionally do it, but it's easier to turn your head then say, 'what's going on here.'"
Along with the fun, the Community Healing Center will be on hand with information on how folks can get involved in helping kids in their community. Proceeds from the concert will go to abuse prevention and counseling services. There will also be many things for families to do.
"We've got carnival events, all sorts of games for them to come for free and have a great day," said Wright.
The Wright for Kids Rocks for Kids runs Friday August 21st and Saturday August 22nd. More information can be found here.
