TEEN SPIRIT
Concert benefits New Day’s mission of helping young people in trouble
The Albuquerque music scene is one that likes to give back.
That’s why John Nichols, of New Day Youth & Family Services, reached out to four local bands for its annual holiday event.
“I started at Low Spirits and then we were at the KiMo (Theatre) for a couple years,” he says. “This year, we are again at Sunshine Theater and we’re putting the emphasis on the local music scene.”
At this year’s event, The Noms, Red Light Cameras, Reviva and Citizens of Tape City will provide the entertainment on Saturday, Dec. 3, at Sunshine Theater.
All of the proceeds will go to help New Day.
The organization opened Albuquerque’s first runaway shelter in 1976.
For 40 years, New Day has remained focused on meeting the needs of young people in trouble. To accomplish the mission, Nichols says, the organization works toward a vision that every youth has safe refuge for the present, adult allies for the future, and the basic skills needed to carve a healthy and positive path forward.
Nichols says that a few weeks ago, the bands all met with some of the teens at New Day during a dinner.
“This was an amazing experience, because they all took time out of their day to give back,” he says. “They sang a little for the teens and then encouraged the group to also take a crack at singing. Having the bands there helped open some of the teens’ eyes, because many of the members are not much older than the teens. They can see opportunities in front of them.”
Nichols also wanted to keep the show all-ages and affordable.
At $10 a ticket, he hopes the community will attend the show all while helping New Day.
“These kids are survivors,” he says. “Music uplifts everybody. We need people to show up, and that’s been the challenge in Albuquerque. We’ve also made it earlier in the holiday season so more people have the flexibility to attend.”
Nichols is also trying to get some high school students involved in the show.
“I’m working with Bosque and St. Pius on getting some students to get volunteer credit,” he says. “Many of the teens at New Day are their peers. I’m hoping with this annual event to bring the community closer together.”