Peek at a wonderful week at Caffe Lena

But I want to take a moment to talk about an event in the list below that is not a concert. Background: folk music is known for its stories. Sometimes those stories told between songs are the best part of the show. There are ballads ancient and new. And there’s a story revealed when you take that 10,000 foot look at what sorts of things we sing about. Clearly, we care a lot about love! We care about people who have been wronged, who triumph over adversity, who get up to no good, who crave forgiveness, and who have a vision for a better world. Our songs hurl us into a moment of emotion that we didn’t see coming. This one from Kat Wright, coming Friday, captures so much of what I’m talking about. This is what drives our work at Caffe Lena.

Well, these same forces drive all the nonprofits working in our community–the groups caring for hungry and homeless neighbors, maintaining nature trails, keeping seniors active and preserving our historic buildings. The folks leading these organizations are deeply moved by love, by the beauty and potential of everyday people, and they want to manifest a vision of fairness and health. It’s creative work. I believe that these stories belong on Lena’s stage, which is why I launched “Art of Community,” an uplifting monthly conversation and gathering for nonprofits. It’s where creativity, connection and learning come together. I hope that makes sense. If you volunteer anywhere, or donate to nonprofits, or care about the challenges these groups address, you belong in the gathering.