Season Tip-Off Jam for Youth Summer Jobs
A music festival hoping to raise funds and awareness for youth summer jobs will be held downtown this Saturday.
The 2015 Season Tip-Off Jam for Youth Summer Jobs will take place on June 6 from 3 to 7 p.m. on Georgia St., right before the Indiana Fever take on the Minnesota Lynx in their home opener presented by Papa John’s.
Deputy director of the Department of Public Safety, Valerie Washington spoke at a press conference this morning to announce the festival, which will feature concerts by local artists and live entertainment from Radio One on-air personalities.
Speaking alongside Washington were Fever VP of business operations, Julie Graue; president of Downtown Indy, Sherry Seiwert; executive director of the Public Safety Foundation, Nicholas Ball; and Chief Hite of the IMPD.
“We can’t think of a better event to have here [on Georgia St.] that not only activates the street, but also raises much needed funds for a great cause,” said Seiwert.
Graue said the Indiana Fever and Pacers Sports & Entertainment are excited to be a part of the festival as well, “one of our common goals is serving the community, so this ties in perfectly.”
The Public Safety Foundation hopes to make a difference in the lives of Indianapolis’ youth by providing them with structure, motivation, self-worth, and a chance to make an income over the summer.
“Early work experience allows youth to learn those important skills such as reliability, confidence, teamwork, being able to follow through with something,” said Washington.
Chief Hite echoed Washington’s points, saying it’s important to show the young people in our community that we care and understand their value.
Donations to The Public Safety Foundation have totaled around $35,000 so far, but the Foundation hopes to raise at least $70,000 for summer jobs.
The Indiana Fever has a special ticket offer on FeverGroups.com/DPS that will donate a portion of the ticket sales back to the initiative to provide summer jobs for youths.
The Fever will tip-off at 7 p.m and are hoping to break the Guinness World Record for the Most glow sticks simultaneously lit at one venue.