Faces in the crowd: WNC crowdfunding initiatives

Electrik and Misterka recently shot their first music video for single. Still frame courtesy of the band

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.

JENNY ELECTRIK AND SETH MISTERKA ALBUM

“We did not have the intention of producing a new album,” reads the campaign page of Jenny Electrik and Seth Misterka, who recently — based on an energy healer’s recommendation — retreated to a Brevard cabin. “But songs started appearing like visions out of the woodwork, and the music began to take on a life of its own.” Misterka’s heart-shaped guitar cutout, nature scenes, yoga poses and lyrics hailing the couple’s “best days” all make appearances in the bohemian debut music video, below. Electrik and Misterka aim to raise $1,000 by Sunday, Jan. 11, to record the rest of their album.

GINNY OMAN’S HEALING HARP PROGRAM

“I believe that life is all about giving back,” says Ginny Oman in her campaign video. Completing a specialized harp training program would authorize Oman as an accredited harp therapist, thereby empowering her to soothe patients of all ages and medical statuses — from premature infants in incubators to the elderly in nursing homes. “The power of sound through music has astounding positive effects on people who are currently experiencing pain and emotions of anxiety, loneliness or fear,” she says. Oman aims to raise $1,700 by Wednesday, Jan. 14, to cover the costs of the residential training course in San Diego.

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 projects here.

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About Kat McReynolds
Kat studied entrepreneurship and music business at the University of Miami and earned her MBA at Appalachian State University. Follow me @katmAVL

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