The annual Night of Hope event at Concordia will be held on Sat., Oct. 7 from 6-9 p.m. This is a student-led benefit concert that aims to bring awareness to various organizations each year. The original Night of Hope began in 2010 after the massive earthquake that devastated Haiti. The proceeds from the inaugural Night of Hope benefited those affected by the earthquake. Since then, Night of Hope has chosen a different organization to benefit each year. The focus of Night of Hope this year will be on the organization called Charity on Wheels.

Charity on Wheels is an organization that works to care for those in need such as the homeless and sick. The charity also works to help people out of homelessness and show the true beauty of God’s grace to all His people. All proceeds from Night of Hope will be counted and given to Charity on Wheels at the end of the night.

The Night of Hope concert consists of various Concordia performers as well as local worship singer and songwriter Jadon Lavik, who is the headliner of this year’s concert. Lavik specializes in modern hymns and writing contemporary songs that reach the emotion of his listeners.

Many Concordia students are involved with the planning and production of Night of Hope. One of the students actively involved with this event is junior Melissa Sarina, Service Coordinator, who works closely with Night of Hope. Sarina encourages students to go and says Night of Hope is an “inspiring, fun event for any age.”

Sarina also highlights how the benefit concert is an opportunity for students to see how organizations within Orange County are working to improve our community. Night of Hope is a great way to bring unity to the Concordia family through the selfless efforts to help those in need.

Concordia students who have attended Night of Hope in the past have enjoyed the fellowship that this night has to offer. Sophomore Mckinsey Thorpe attended Night of Hope last year. Thorpe says Night of Hope was a really fun experience and she was glad she went. Many students enjoy the camaraderie that Night of Hope brings to the students and staff while benefiting a great cause.

Tickets for Night of Hope are just one dollar. Those who attend will receive free food alongside opportunities for raffles, art, t-shirts for sale, and various entertainment booths. This event will take place in the Nelson Amphitheater at the CU Center patio from 6-9 p.m. on Sat., Oct. 7.

In times of devastation that have unfortunately fallen upon the United States and communities affected by senseless acts, it is important to remain united in God and help those in need. All are encouraged to join the Concordia family at this beneficial, memorable and wholesome event.

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