After a very tough 2012 school year, Hemet High parents organized a summer, under-the-stars benefit concert, “Hope, Healing, and a Brighter Future” to take place June 29th from 5pm to 10 pm at the High School Stadium. All proceeds from the “Brighter Future” Concert will create a scholarship fund to encourage the 8 students injured May 30th when they were hit in the crosswalk by a student who ran a red light. Yesenia, Vivian, and Catherine now rest at home, attend physical therapy, and receive ongoing treatment. Helen was released on Thursday to a physical rehab center where she continues her recovery.
Musicians, performers, parents, Hemet High staff, and businesses have joined efforts to freely donate time, treasure and talent for this “Brighter Future” Concert, a colorful variety of music and performance. “This year has been a very difficult year for all of us, and it’s uplifting to see so many people generously give to these families,” stated Hemet High Principal, Dr. Emily Shaw. Students injured by the accident, and their families, will be given a special front-row section to enjoy the concert. “For some of us who were there when the kids were hit, planning this concert is a healing act,” said Karen Jicha, a parent-concert organizer who tended to the students at the scene. Tickets will be sold at the gate for a $5.00 minimum donation. The student body, who courageously navigated through this year’s events, are invited to wear school colors and team jerseys for a discount ticket price of $2.00 with student identification. Ryan Berkowsky, Hemet High teacher and music organizer for the concert said, “With all the great community support, we want folks who want to give to be able to afford it and heal with the rest of us.” Continued prayers, donations, scholarship, community support and the joy of music will close this school year on a positive “note,” and provide the recovering students with a little more hope, healing, and a brighter future. For further information, contact Karen Jicha, parent concert-organizer thru the Hemet High School office by June 25th, 951-765-5150 (school office will be closed after the 25th). Please look for our event on Facebook at Celebrate “Hope, Healing and a Brighter Future.”