Voices of Unity receives $50K pledge

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Fort Wayne's Voices of Unity USA Choir Olympic Team moved a big step closer to competing at the World Choir Games in China this July, thanks to a $50,000 pledge from Steel Dynamics Foundation .

The pledge presents a challenge to raise all the funds needed to make the trip a reality.

"The Steel Dynamics Foundation has great vision to understand what a fantastic opportunity this is, not just for the choir, but for Fort Wayne and all of northeast Indiana," said Marshall White, director of the Voices of Unity USA Choir Olympic Team and Unity Performing Arts Foundation founder. "This is a chance to let the world know about the quality of our young people, and our ability to compete globally. What a great message to send to the world. Thank you, Steel Dynamics Foundation!"

White also said the choir needs other companies to join Steel Dynamics Foundation in supporting this opportunity.

The choir is closer than ever to reaching its Dreams of Gold to represent Fort Wayne, northeast Indiana and all of the United States at the World Choir Games. Voices of Unity had the challenge of raising about $400,000 in a short period of time. As of Wednesday, $104,000 had been raised and another $81,000 pledged (including the Steel Dynamics Foundation pledge). That leaves about $215,000 left to be raised in the next month to ensure that all travel arrangements can be made on time.

To help make the trip a reality, a Dreams of Gold Corporate Rally will be held Wednesday, May 26, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Sweetwater Sound corporate headquarters at 5501 U.S. 30 West. Company representatives will see the choir perform and learn more about the World Choir Games and how participating in this world-wide event will enhance northeast Indiana's global profile. This is an opportunity for corporate donors to offer their support and bring a donation check to the rally.

Some of the biggest fundraising momentum is coming from the choir members themselves. Since early March, choir members and their families have raised more than $80,000 of the $104,000 raised so far. If you'd like to make a donation, click here .

"The gifts people are making on the website - even at just $10 or $20 at a time - are adding up," said White. "But to be able to reach China, we need the corporate community around the state to help us too. Anyone can go to the website to make a donation by credit card. Corporate donors can also contact UPAF office (260-481-6719) for more information about donating to this great cause."