Guitars for Heroes hosts fundraiser for local veterans

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Veterans Day celebrations continued through the weekend. Guitars for Heroes hosted an all-day music festival Saturday. It’s an organization that uses music to support those who have served our country.

Patrick Miller, the lead organizer of this event, who’s also a veteran, said he feels it’s important to recognize the vulnerable people in the community, especially veterans. That we have a sacred obligation to support them.

There are countless ways people help those in need. Since 2018, Rochester Guitars for Heroes, has used music festivals, to honor those who’ve served in the military.

“This year we’re donating all the proceeds to Otto’s House and Priscilla’s House, which are residential programs run by Rochester Veterans Outreach Center,” Miller said.

Ten bands jam, packed into Johnny’s Irish Pub over the weekend. People were able to buy raffle tickets, donate and even win prizes, like a guitar!

Miller says times are tough for many right now, but thinks it’s important to recognize the vulnerable in the community, especially those who sacrificed so much for the freedom we have today.

“Rough for us, it’s especially rough for the most vulnerable elements of our veterans community, so coming together to support and assist the men and women who put it all out on the line for us in their time of need just seems appropriate.”

In the crowd were veterans from all eras jamming to good tunes. There was also a digital collage of moments in history, some more emotional than others.

“Veterans need this support, the VOC is also challenged, by funding, it’s just something we have to do, the alternative is a very vulnerable section of our community will suffer and that’s just not acceptable,” Miller added.

All proceeds from the event go to programs for local veterans and their families.