Voices of Hope Story

On Friday, February 20th, Eastview High School hosted their very own sing-a-thon event entitled "Voices of Hope". This event was created and organized by the Women's Chorale of Eastview High School under the direction of Judy Sagen. They teamed up with the Angel Foundation, a Minnesota-based charitable organization working to fulfill unmet non-medical needs of adult cancer patients and their families, to make the event possible. The proceeds from the event were donated to the Angel Foundation to help these families struggling with cancer, including the families of a few of the Women's Chorale members themselves.

The performances throughout the day included solo acts, duets, trios, choral performances, bands, and many others. The day was filled with non-stop singing from 8 am to midnight. Classes from every hour throughout the school day attended the event and filled the performing arts center, and the crowd continued to attend into the evening. There was clearly a lot of hardwork that went in to planning the event, and the volunteers and coordinators showed a great deal of dedication to this excellent cause.

The event was well attended and a great number of students and faculty were involved. Many donated their money to claim a spot on the schedule to sing in front of the crowds in attendance. Many alumni returned as well to support the cause and share their talents. Eastview alumni Brooke Kilgariff, who was recently crowned Miss Twin Cities, attended to emcee the event. As a talented singer she also performed on the stage. To close the night Eastview alumni Ben Huhner, Jacob Romero, Dustin Hatzenbuhler, and Eastview senior Colin Burke of the band Ferris put on an excellent performance. After recently recording and releasing their first album, Dancing with Architects, the band had the album for sale at the event with all the proceeds going to the Angel Foundation.

Faculty members Greg Douma and Kelly Sundin from the choral department, and Mike Tomlinson from the mathematics department, as well as others including the office ladies from the attendance and guidance offices along with the principal, Dr. Randy Peterson himself, performed on the stage as well to contribute to the cause. Their performances were greatly enjoyed and appreciated by students and supporters alike.

Performers throughout the day were not only from Eastview High School but also from surrounding districts and areas. Seniors Mark Vandergon and Charlie Parrish-Siggelkow from Cannon Falls, MN heard about the event and made their way up to Apple Valley to peform. Affected by the hardship of cancer in his own family, Vandergon stated, "I was overjoyed to be able to play in support of cancer and know that we could help others affected by this terrible disease." With such great support and dedication to helping families in need during their time of struggle, Voices of Hope brought faith to many who were in need of it and helped them to know that so many people care and want to help fight for those who need it most.