A week-long Caribbean vacation is up for grabs as part of a fundraising effort supporting Arts to End Genocide (ATEG), a New Bern-based nonprofit dedicated to providing aid to displaced women and children in Mali, West Africa.
The drawing for the vacation will launch during the Second Annual Global Citizenship Music Festival on Saturday, May 17, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Union Point Park. Presented in partnership with Faith Connection and The Atlantic Dance Theatre, the event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating or blankets. Food trucks will be on site, and the festival will take place rain or shine.
The top prize in the fundraiser is a seven-night stay at the historic Balenbouche Estate in St. Lucia, an organic farm and retreat center set on a 70-acre heritage site with access to two secluded beaches. The stay, which includes breakfast and is valued at $2,000, was donated by the estate in support of ATEG’s humanitarian work. The winner is responsible for airfare and ground transportation.
Festivalgoers can purchase raffle tickets for $20 at the event or online at artstoendgenocide. The drawing will be held on July 25.
“This vacation raffle is a generous opportunity made possible by our partners in St. Lucia,” said Mitch Lewis, founder of ATEG. “All proceeds directly fund our programs in Mali, where we continue to provide vital food and healthcare support in IDP (internally displaced persons) camps.”
The festival itself will showcase a diverse lineup of international performers reflecting the cultural diversity of the local community. Scheduled acts include:
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Los Sabrosos Del Son (Latin music)
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Solo (West African music and dance)
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Unknown Tongues (Zydeco)
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K’nyaw (Burmese music and dance)
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Soulful Sisters (Hindu dance)
A community choir, formed by members of several local church choirs, will close the festival with a performance of songs promoting unity and shared humanity.
Valentina Wilson, anchor at WCTI-TV 12, will emcee the event.
While admission is free, ATEG encourages voluntary or monthly donations to support its work. Contributions can be made at the event or through the organization’s website.
“Every dollar raised goes directly to our efforts on the ground in Mali,” said Deedra Durocher, a member of the ATEG board. “It’s a way for our community to show that we haven’t forgotten the people suffering far from here.”
