Evening of Hope uplifts community

In an attempt to uplift the community through these tough economic times, the City of Fort Wayne and the Unity Performing Arts Foundation joined forces to put together an 'Evening of Hope' music concert Saturday.

The event was hosted and broadcasted by WANE-TV.

Voices of Unity took to the stage with the difficult task of uplifting a downhearted community. "The idea being that we can all use hope regardless of what's going on with the economy or anywhere else," explained Rick Farrant, marketing director for Unity Performing Arts. "Anytime people are facing a difficult time, I think it's important for everyone to come together."

Hundreds packed the Rhinehart Music Center at IPFW to kick back and forget their troubles for at least a little while.

"Music puts you in the place of remembering who you are," said Celestine as she waited in line. "And you forget about all that other junk that's supposed to be going on on the outside."

Ramana Applegate was there to see her son perform. She loved the idea of the City of Fort Wayne backing such an event."It's really going to uplift people. And I hope it carries on for days and years to come."

Before the show, several community organizations set up booths outside the Rhinehart Music Center to offer their services. If you would like to learn more about organizations like the Salvation Army Youth Programs and Associated Churches , click on the respective name.