by Judy Lewis
Sing Out Detroit is seen here rehearsing. The Metro Detroit LGBT chorus is scheduling auditions for the 2010 season.
FERNDALE – Whether you light candles, hang lights or both, this time of the year seems to be filled with energy. Thanks in great part to the marching bands and the colorful floats, we begin to think about the coming holidays.
While most children eagerly anticipate the holidays each year, hoping for toys and presents, many children and families consider themselves fortunate to have a place to call home, food on the table and warm clothes to wear. For the record numbers of adults, children and seniors who are going to bed hungry and cold, the holidays don't seem so merry.
Enter The Godmothers, a wonderful grassroots group of professional women who work tirelessly throughout the year to help as many families, children and seniors as possible during the holiday season. Established in 1999, The Godmothers is a charitable non-profit, supported by private donations and fundraisers. Working in partnership with many local agencies and teachers, The Godmothers provide hope and renewal of faith to people in need.
The Godmothers held their 10th Annual Holiday T-Dance at Club 9 in Ferndale. Along with yummy appetizers and desserts, the event also featured DJ Dede and special guest DJ Joan, a 50/50 raffle and a silent auction.
A highlight of the afternoon was the music of Sing Out Detroit, a very talented 35-member LGBT chorus, who provided holiday music for the many attendees. Now in their second year, Sing Out Detroit has been busy with performances throughout the metropolitan community. The choir was at their best for this very special event.
"Sing Out Detroit was very happy to be asked to perform for The Godmothers. It's such a great charitable group within our community and exactly the kind of event, and group, that the choir wants to be involved with. We look forward to future events with them," said Linda Brincat a founder and member of the choir.
Donated toys and money, collected from the afternoon, will help provide family members in need with clothing, a few toys and a homemade stocking filled with candy and small items. All packages will be individually wrapped and delivered by Godmother volunteers. Each family will also receive additional food for the holidays and a Christmas dinner.
"Thank-you to everyone who came out and supported The Godmothers Annual Holiday T-Dance. It was a great turn out and we raised a lot of money and toys for families in need this holiday season. A special thank-you to Sing out Detroit, DJ Joan and friends and Club 9. We couldn't do what we do without our volunteers," said Vicky Lewis of The Godmothers.
The call for for assistance is growing in southeastern Michigan. Let's show those in need that they matter and that we care. Help make a difference in the life of a child, or a family, this holiday season. For information about The Godmothers and their work, call 248-698-7834.
