A group of Vermonters trying to combat the negative impact of drug addiction is putting on a benefit concert at the Vermont State Fair Sunday to raise money for three organizations tackling addiction head on.
They call themselves Vermonters for Vermonters, and about two dozen volunteer members met recently at a Rutland church to work out last minute details for Sunday’s concert.
Quechee singer and songwriter Joey Leone founded the group and will be one of several musicians performing.
Other acts include: Jeremy Graham, Ashley Buchart and Bow Thayer.
Joey Leone says the event evolved in response to state’s growing heroin epidemic and the feeling of powerlessness it was causing in many people. “I was feeling helpless myself. I have a son who suffers from drug addiction and I just knew as an entertainer and musician, I’ve done a lot of benefits over the years and I felt it was something I should do.”
Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Vermont Recovery Network, a nonprofit statewide organization that supports drug and alcohol abuse treatment services.
Dismas House, a nonprofit that helps those just released from prison transition back into the community will also benefit from the concert, as will Project Vision, a coalition of over 100 groups working together to revitalize Rutland.
"I was feeling helpless myself. I have a son who suffers from drug addiction and I just knew as an entertainer and musician I've done a lot of benefits over the years and I felt it was something I should do." - Quechee singer and songwriter Joey Leone
Castleton resident Clay Gilbert, in recovery himself for 28 years, is one of dozens of volunteers taking part. “It just seemed to me like a really good idea to be involved in something positive and get into the solution rather than be part of the problem,” he said.
He and other volunteers say no matter how much money they raise, working together on this has helped create valuable new collaborations and friendships.
