Crowdfunding platforms make it possible for individuals and organizations of any size to harness social networks and raise start-up capital for projects that might otherwise fail due to lack of funding. Each week, Xpress highlights notable Western North Carolina crowdsourcing initiatives that may inspire readers to become new faces in the crowd.
BILLY JONAS BAND ALBUM RELEASE AND TOUR
Build it Back Again, Billy Jonas Band’s latest “super fun, funky family folk” album, features four-part harmonies and percussion from such unexpected sources as a rake, garbage can, half-filled mason jar and conveniently micro-tonal egg slicer. With special guests including Steep Canyon Rangers’ Nicky Sanders, Toubab Krewe’s Justin Perkins, River Guerguerian, Chris Rosser and Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, the kid-friendly project is certainly poised to create a local buzz before the quartet takes its 13 shiny new tunes out on the road. The child charmers aim to raise $30,000 by Nov. 4, to launch their album and offset touring costs.
BELOVED SHELTER EXPANSION
BeLoved is a community shelter serving LGBT individuals and couples who are struggling or have been rejected by their loved ones and relatives based on sexual identity. “We get calls every day!” says the shelter’s campaign page. “We are working for a place with room enough so none of our family are left in the cold.” BeLoved aims to raise $10,000 to expand into a larger space “to welcome people home.” The shelter also accepts in-kind donations, including food, clothing, hygiene products, blankets and more, throughout the year.
Send your crowdsourcing campaign news to kmcreynolds@mountainx.com. A limited number of campaigns will be highlighted each week, at Xpress’ discretion. Campaigns must be locally based and should represent a current project with an achievable goal. Conditions are subject to change. Read about more WNC campaigns here.
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