Save the date! The 2nd annual WinterSongs Benefit Concert is February 27 at 5 p.m. in the Monticello High School Auditorium.

WinterSongs is a collaborative event featuring almost 200 young women vocalists, ages 11 to 24, from six area schools (Albemarle, Monticello and Charlottesville high schools; Burley and Henley middle schools; and the University of Virginia). The event was created by local music teachers to provide a day of sharing, healing, support, empowerment, and music in the face of violence against women. The day features workshops and mini-performances by the women for each other and culminates in a public concert.

Admission is free, but the focus is on raising money for the Shelter for Help in Emergency, which provides aid, counseling and protection for victims of domestic abuse in Charlottesville. Last year, this special event raised $3,000. We’re hoping to reach our goal of $5,000 this year!