Michigan Teenagers Organize Benefit 'Bands that JAM Christmas Concert' December 11, 2010, in Pontiac, MI

TROY, Mich., Dec. 6, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Bands that JAM for Africa will hold its fifth annual concert to benefit JAM, an African relief organization, on December 11, 2010 at The Pike Room, 15 S. Saginaw in downtown Pontiac.  The featured bands are Mike's Pawn Shop, News from Verona, Fly Like Kings, Rival Summers, Stereo Shout Out and Go Go Gizmo.  The Christmas Concert comes at a perfect time for generous giving.

Bands that JAM for Africa is the brainchild of seventeen year old Morgan Fisher, who at the age of only 14, conceived the idea of show casing the musicians of tomorrow in a benefit performance to help feed children in Africa.  The organization is currently providing clean water, education and food to hundreds of African children and many of the past bands have gone on to achieve success in the music industry.

Morgan enlisted a "Street Team" of teenagers from eight different Michigan school districts including Romeo, Royal Oak, Berkley, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Rochester and Flint.  The student volunteers help by promoting the event in their schools, selling tickets, bracelets, and raising awareness.  Many of the volunteer students have given speeches to their classes, made presentations to their teachers and earned extra credit for their achievements.  In some cases students have earned valuable community service hours for their efforts.

Since 2008, BTJ4A has raised over $20,000 and Morgan says, "My goal is to raise money by inspiring teenagers to get involved.  It doesn't take much to make a difference.  By buying a ticket and enjoying the show a teenager can change the life of a child in Africa."

Through music, Morgan has been able to raise thousands of dollars and worked with hundreds of teenagers from 18 states.  For her efforts, Morgan has received a Special Tribute from the State of Michigan, the Rotary Youth Leadership Award and a grant from DoSomething.org.

"Bands that JAM for Africa has had a great 2010," said Morgan, "but I have even bigger plans for 2011!"

Sponsorship opportunities for the December 11, 2010 event are now available. Advance tickets sell for $10-$12 at the door.  Show starts at 5PM.  For information visit Bands that JAM for Africa on Facebook.

SOURCE Bands that JAM for Africa