Capitol Steps Raise Funds for Local Youth

January 5, 2011

The Capitol Steps, the well-known troupe of musical political satirists, performed at Mount Holyoke College again this December as they have for the past eight years, but this year's performance packed a special punch.

Benefit tickets for the show raised nearly $10,000 for activities that will be organized by the South Hadley Youth Commission. Mount Holyoke President Lynn Pasquerella welcomed those who purchased benefit tickets at a reception following the December 18 performance.

"Mount Holyoke is honored to play a part in supporting the important work of the South Hadley Youth Commission. I was impressed by the commitment and dedication of all of our neighbors who worked so hard to make this event a success," Pasquerella said. "We look forward to continuing our efforts together in the weeks and months ahead."

"We especially appreciate everyone who helped make this really fun benefit evening a success,” added Carol Constant, chair of the Youth Commission.

The newly formed Youth Commission has adopted a mission of empowering young people to be change-makers in the community. The members, who call themselves the South Hadley Super Heroes, envision working to create a positive community by planning, promoting, and participating in community service, recreational, and education activities for and with South Hadley’s youth, and by collaborating with other groups in implementing activities for youth.

Upcoming events include a Community Arts Night during Community Service Week, January 11-18, and participation in the Winter Carnival on February 5 at the South Hadley High School.

“We are especially proud of the young people who have come forward to be part of this group,” said Amy Foley, vice-chair of the South Hadley Youth Commission.

Those interested in joining or learning more about the Youth Commission should contact Foley at 413-313-1734 or South Hadley Super Heroes chair Melanie Demakis at 413-896-5008 or meldemakis@gmail.com.

The Capitol Steps performance was produced by the Mike Thornton Agency and Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations. Sponsors for the event included Mount Holyoke College, the Valley Advocate, the Daily Hampshire Gazette, and WFCR and WNNZ radio. Special thanks also go to Robert Judge, the Odyssey Bookshop, and the Northampton Box Office.

Permanent link to this story: http://www.mtholyoke.edu/news/stories/5682654