This unique and powerful annual show features original songs and first-person stories that reveal the good work being done by local nonprofits, the courage and commitment of everyday people, and the power of songs to open hearts and create understanding.

Over the course of several months, Caffe Lena songwriters have been working with local people who have endured a significant life challenge. Out of that partnership comes a performance like no other: a snapshot of real life struggles, kindness, and determination unfolding all around us.TrueSongs will change the way you see Saratoga.

Held at Universal Preservation Hall, this year's show of stories and songs features an athlete who keeps playing despite the loss of his eyesight; a restaurant worker who found his purpose running a food pantry program; a young mom whose health crisis became a foundation to help others; a person creating space for the natural world to flourish right in town, and a young woman who has overcome profound learning challenges to live a full life of music, friendship and independence.

This year's program features these extraordinary speakers, songwriters and team coaches:

CAMP ABILITIES

Speaker: Maxwell Shear

Songwriter: Kate McDonnell

Coach: Al Ciejka

WHITMAN FOUNDATION

Speaker: Jackie Whitman

Songwriter: Girl Love (Laura Beth Johnson)

Coach: Margaret French

WILDWOOD

Speaker: Debbie Smith

Songwriter: Sawyer Fredericks