On Sept. 17, charitable organization 13Forever and Music Maker Studio will host a concert and car show benefiting 13Forever. Students at Music Maker Studio range in age from youngsters to adults.
By: Kara Szymanski | Shelby-Utica News | Published August 9, 2023
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Shelby Township residents Roy and Carol Townsend lost their son to cancer nine years ago and have since taken steps to help other families who might face the same things that they once did.
Their 13-year-old son, Justin, was diagnosed with a brain cancer called glioblastoma multiforme in 2013. Justin was treated at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and he passed away Aug. 7, 2014. In early 2022, the Townsends created a charity, 13Forever, to raise money for cancer research and local organizations that fight pediatric cancer.
The next fundraising event will take place 2-6 p.m. Sept. 17, when Music Maker Studio and 13Forever will host an outdoor concert and classic car show called “The New Millennium” at 55119 Shelby Road. That is the address of Music Maker Studio, located at the intersection of 25 Mile and Shelby roads.
The event coordinators are looking for 25 classic car owners to volunteer to show off their cars for the cause. To volunteer, email rdtownsend@13forever.org or call (586) 634-2694.
Peter Piwonski, the owner of Music Maker Studio, said the studio’s students play fundraisers around town for various organizations and they are happy to be teaming up with 13Forever.
“We will have a car show to go along with the music as well as a Cornhole tournament (weather depending) with all funds we make going to 13Forever. The students range in ages 5-65. They love not only playing but performing for great causes,” he said in an email.
Roy Townsend, the executive director of 13Forever said, said that working with Music Maker Studio and local businesses is a “blessing.”
“To cater to the appetites of the concert-goers, a diverse selection of delectable food will be provided by local restaurants. With such a fantastic lineup of entertainment and culinary delights, this event promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend,” he said via email.
He said that he became a little emotional when talking to the students from Music Maker Studio about what 13Forever is about and then seeing their compassion, willingness and eagerness to help spread awareness of childhood cancer and the need for a cure.
“After meeting Peter and his students, I am hoping this is only one of many events we team up on and help in the battle against pediatric cancer,” Roy Townsend said.
Find more information about 13Forever at 13Forever.org or facebook.com/13ForeverCharity.