Why I gave the lead gift to begin the Vintage Band Festival Fund at Northfield Shares:
Early in my life I realized that I had won the lottery by being born in the United States, in the Midwest, on a farm into a strong family with unconditional love plus a deep and strong religious life. My wonderful parents were major volunteers in the church and in the community where we lived. They lived a life of generosity, kindness and love, providing an excellent template for my own life.
Newly married and employed in the Dean’s Office at the University of Illinois I was working with an older colleague who was weathering some serious family trouble. Jeanne suggested to Stan and me that we should build a memory bank into our lives, as she had done. “Celebrate everything, plan special events, travels, family events, make your own traditions. When trouble comes, and it will, you can withdraw happiness and joy from this bank to help you get through this trouble.” IT WORKS!
OK, the world is a mess. World history is war, pestilence and starvation. My graduate education is in economics, “the Dismal Science….” However, I have made it a practice in my life to wake up every morning looking for every sparkle of joy I can find to savor! It is a good thing to do.
My 19 years of volunteer service for the Vintage Band Festival provides me with great memories and joy in spades! Everyone involved, Board members, musicians, volunteers, friends, family, audiences, townspeople and the many assorted, random folks who find themselves surprised and delighted to be here during the festival enjoys this event. Live brass music, in the open air, in this (admit it) idyllic town connect the audiences and the musicians with one another. WE ARE NOT BOWLING ALONE!
Our audiences are very inclusive and varied. You will find families and individuals of all ages, races, ethnic backgrounds, economic status and social classes. All are welcome here.
My great good fortune is to be able to support this event with a lead financial gift to ensure VBF continues to delight everyone in the future. I want to especially honor Paul Niemisto for his brilliant ideas, knowledge and enthusiasm and Dan Bergeson for his superb management skills and his enthusiasm. The Vintage Band Festival is a mature organization and ready to receive your charitable donation to the fund managed efficiently and prudently by the local board of Northfield Shares. This fund is separate from our annual operations fundraising.
The Vintage Band Festival is a secular event that may appeal to your specific philanthropic plans. We have been a 501C3 nonprofit organization for many years, providing donors with tax advantages.
Our website has more information or text me anytime.
WELCOME TO JOY!
Janet (Jan) Gettings Stevens
JULY 18, 2024