Daily Bread organizes three concerts to raise money

With donations down and demand for meals increasing, a local soup kitchen is going beyond its typical fundraising methods by organizing a piano concert.

David Nevue, an Oregon-based pianist, is scheduled to play three shows in Lynchburg as part of a tour of the southeast. Daily Bread President MJ Williamson said the nonprofit hopes to raise about $5,000 over the course of the shows, with the main event set for Sept. 19 at Lynchburg College.

“We’re trying something totally different … to give the community an opportunity to enjoy something and still benefit from the ticket sales,” Williamson said.

The Daily Bread’s income was down 8 percent last year, she said, with plans for a 10 percent decrease next year.

While contributions have been down a little more than 12 percent, expenses have increased nearly 7 percent, she said.

The nonprofit served 40,000 meals last year. That is expected to increase by 15 to 20 percent this year. Simply asking for more money isn’t enough as other nonprofit social service agencies compete for donations from families with less disposable income.

“We want to be proactive with not letting ourselves get into a situation where we really are short of funds to make our daily operation,” she said.

Nevue said the benefit has worked out well for him since Williamson helped him set up other performances at Oakwood Country Club on Sept. 18 and Peakland United Methodist Church on Sept. 20.

“To come and be in one place for three days, it gives me a chance to perform and relax and enjoy the area,” he said.

Nevue, who has released 10 albums since 1992, said he strives to make his performances more than a cliché where the audience comes and sits quietly while the soloist plunks the keys.

“There is a lot of storytelling, talking about the songs, where they’re coming from,” he said. “There is a lot of humor, joy. It’s a lot of fun.”

Williamson praised Lynchburg College, the country club and church for helping to organize the effort. The college has donated use of the performance hall. Oakwood has also agreed to share proceeds from their show.

If you’re going

• Where: Lynchburg College
• When: 7 p.m. Sept. 19
• What: Solo pianist David Nevue concert to benefit The Daily Bread
• Cost: $25
• How: Tickets for sale at Boonsboro Pharmacy, Lynchburg Visitors Center, Lynchburg College Bookstore and at The Daily Bread
• For more information: (434) 845-5703