Music fans and supporters of the Down Syndrome Association of West Tennessee braved the heat on Wednesday night for the annual Country Music Lends Down a Hand concert.
The Association was formed in 2004 and holds camps in the summer for several age groups at Camp Clark Williamson. Spokeswoman Debbie Riffle says the camps run for two weeks thanks to certified instructors and volunteers and attract campers from as far away as Memphis.
The concert this year featured the Paula Bridges Band, the Kimberlie Helton Band, and Rev. Jesse and the Holy Smokes, all of which are long-time volunteers for the concert. The crowd was also treated to a special performance by campers who are enrolled in the Pat Brown School of Dancing Rhythm Works dance classes, which are specially designed for those with learning differences and special needs.
The annual concert is the only fundraiser during the year. Riffle says, “We don’t have an office or certain location. We are a non-profit and try to be frugal with our money. All the money that we raise goes to programs and services.”
The concert helps to fund the camps, baskets that are given to parents when babies with Down Syndrome are born, a travel fund for families who must seek medical care out of the area and other support services.
To inquire about the services or get in touch with the group about volunteering, sponsorship or a donation, visit the groups facebook page or email [email protected].
