Rock for Hunger raises $200 for charity

Volunteer UCF organized their first charity concert of the year Tuesday in downtown Orlando, and raised $200 for Second Harvest, a charity helping to feed the hungry in Orange County and across Central Florida.

The concert was the first of its kind this school year, although the group has seven more concerts already planned for this year. Chris Goyzueta, the head of Volunteer UCF Hunger, has some high goals set for Rock for Hunger.

"A goal I would like to reach with each show at the bigger venues is between $500 and $1,200 each show," Goyzueta said about Rock for Hunger. "At our major show once a year we plan on reaching about $5,000 this year," Said Goyzueta.

Goyzueta combined music and charity at Tuesday's event - along with rock and hip hop - to create a fun atmosphere for students at Backbooth in downtown Orlando.

"Rock for Hunger is about musicians, the community, UCF and anyone who cares about the cause of ending poverty and make the world a better place," Goyzueta said. "We showcase some of the most talented musicians in Florida and try to raise money and awareness to help fight local and global poverty."

Tracy Wilk, a freshman at UCF, came to the event to give back to the community while letting go of the stress of the first week of school. Wilk, of course, also came out to listen to some good music

"To college students, rock 'n' roll is a huge part of college, alongside with discovering what life is about," Wilk said. "So on that long, four-year journey, why not stop for a few seconds, and just relax and give back? People bond over music and people tend to go to shows regardless, so why not make a charity event out of it?"

Students weren't the only ones looking to help out the community Tuesday. Band members also found meaning from the event while rocking the stage to raise money for the hungry.

Jeremy Siegel, who plays in the local band The Future Funk Collective, came out to perform for a cause he felt needed help in our community.

"People are hungry, and therefore, those of us who can afford to do our part should," Siegel said. "This event helps bring awareness to the blights and to the struggles of others."

While the title may have fooled some, Rock for Hunger Alive also showcased bands from the hip hop genre. Hip hop artist G-Ro, whose real name is Greg Rollett from the band Stumpp, has performed before at the event and came back because it was such a good cause.

"Musicians need to get involved in charity events like this," Rollett said. "But also, people who do not have music as their talent should get involved in their own way. It's important to give back."

Tickets to Rocking Out Hunger cost between $5 and $8.

"It's a fun way for students to go out with friends, have a few drinks, enjoy great music, and most importantly support a great cause," Goyzueta said.

Rock out Hunger's next event is scheduled for February 23 at the AKA Lounge. For more information on Second Harvest, or to volunteer, visit http://www.foodbankcentralflorida.org. To volunteer with UCF, visit www.vucf. getinvolveducf.com.