The sounds of bluegrass and acoustic guitars filled the air Wednesday night as students stood around the dimly lit Common Grounds to raise money and awareness for Invisible Children.
The concert was put on by UF's Invisible Children chapter, which is part of a national organization whose goal is to raise awareness about the long-running civil war in northern Uganda and to raise money for the education of numerous child soldiers in the country.
"Education is the best way to break the vicious cycle," said Stephanie Alman, UF sophomore and president of the chapter. "Every cent from the concert goes to a secondary school in Gulu, Uganda."
The benefit concert made about $1,300 from ticket sales and merchandise, such as T-shirts, peace bracelets and assorted snacks. This is the second benefit concert sponsored by Invisible Children. The first one was held last April.
"Last year, we had over 150 attendees and made over $2,000 from tickets and a raffle," said Briana Banos, director of events for Invisible Children and organizer of this year's concert.
Banos expected the concert to raise less money because the organization was unable to hold a raffle this year.
The concert was comprised of four acts: Sirena Claire, a rock band, Jesse Lash and John Lash, who both played acoustic guitars, and Sandy Strings Grass Band, a bluegrass group. Although their styles of music differed, the performers united for the cause.
"Jesse Lash performed at last year's concert, and his brother agreed to this show as well," Banos said.
Concert goers came and went throughout the night to support a band and to learn about the cause.
"I spent two months in Uganda helping with AIDS welfare, so I fully support the cause," sophomore Mackenzie Pape said.
