On behalf of the CU Schools Foundation (CUSF), we are thrilled to invite you to join us for an extraordinary day of music, community, and support for local education at the inaugural We Are the Schools – Music Fest on Sunday, February 16, 2025. This vibrant event will take place at City Center in Champaign and promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the talent and dedication within our schools and community.
Purchase Tickets Here
Event Highlights
What: We Are the Schools – Music Fest
When: Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM to approximately 7:00 PM
Where: City Center (formerly Fat City Bar & Grill) – 505 S Chestnut St, Champaign
Why: Celebrate the arts, connect with the community, and support education through CUSF teacher grants and initiatives
This family-friendly festival will feature live performances by an eclectic lineup of local talent featuring teachers, staff and students from USD116 and Unit 4 schools including:
- New Souls
- New Orleans Jazz Machine
- Bandoneon Massacre
- Mariachi Tigres de Urbana
- Church Street Ramblers
- Decadents
- Squirrel Movement
- Ther’Up.Y.
- The Yung Ones
- Modern Drugs
In addition to music, the event will include interactive activities for children, opportunities to engage with local organizations, and a chance to connect with the teachers and students who inspire us every day.
How You Can Get Involved
We’re seeking community champions to help make this event a resounding success. Here are three impactful ways your organization can participate:
1. Sponsor the Event
Sponsorships play a vital role in keeping ticket prices accessible and ensuring that proceeds directly benefit local schools. As a sponsor, your organization will receive recognition across event materials, social media, and during the event itself. Sponsorships also come with opportunities for VIP benefits.
View sponsorship details here
2. Host an Informational Table
Connect with a diverse audience of families, teachers, and community members by hosting a table at the event. Share your organization’s mission, programs, or services, and engage attendees with materials or activities. Table space is free, so don’t miss this chance to showcase your work!
3. Volunteer for Kid-Friendly Activities
Help create a welcoming and joyful atmosphere by volunteering for fun, interactive children’s activities. From arts and crafts to musical games, your contributions will add to the day’s magic. Please note that the venue will be alive with music throughout the event, making it an engaging experience for all.
Why It Matters
Your involvement not only highlights your organization’s commitment to education but also uplifts the spirits of our educators, students, and the broader community. Together, we can amplify the impact of CUSF’s grants and program, which enrich the educational experiences of students and teachers in Unit 4 and Urbana District 116 schools, and create an equitable environment for our community kids – so all can thrive!
Ready to Join Us?
If you’re interested in sponsoring, hosting a table, or volunteering, please reach out to Erin Tarr at etarr@cuschoolsfoundation.org or 217-649-0103 by January 16, 2025.
Let’s come together to celebrate the arts, support education, and make a lasting impact in our schools. We can’t wait to see you at the We Are the Schools – Music Fest!
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