Lexington Hosts “Ava and Jules Rockin’ for College Benefit Concert” to Support USC Aiken Life Program

Exciting News from Lexington: A Special Benefit Concert!

Hey, Lexington! We’ve got some thrilling news in the community that you won’t want to miss. The city is gearing up for a heartwarming evening dedicated to celebrating two remarkable young ladies and a program that’s making dreams a reality for students with intellectual disabilities. Ava Shahbahrami and Jules Gray, friends since childhood and both proud members of the USC Aiken Life program, are the stars of this event!

What’s the USC Aiken Life Program?

You might be wondering, what exactly is the Life program? The Life program at the University of South Carolina Aiken provides students with intellectual disabilities the chance to attend college, hone essential life skills like financial literacy and independent living, and prepare for their future careers. It’s a two-year program that has already made waves in its short time since launching. This year alone, it welcomed 24 students, bursting with enthusiasm and dreams for their futures.

“This is something families never thought possible,” share Adrienne Patterson, the assistant director for the Life program. “We’re just in the second year of offering it, and I love being part of opening doors for these amazing students.” It’s astounding to note that while there are around 300 similar programs across the country, only six exist in South Carolina, affording USCA a unique standing as home to the newest one.

A Reason to Celebrate!

This Friday, September 27, is the date to mark on your calendar because of the Ava and Jules Rockin’ for College Benefit Concert. Taking place at the Icehouse Amphitheater in Lexington, this event starts at 5 p.m. and promises an evening full of fun, music, and friendship.

The concert isn’t just a chance to enjoy good tunes! It serves a meaningful purpose: to raise funds for scholarships that support the current and future students of the USC Aiken Life program. Did you know that it costs about $40,000 for students to participate each year? The challenge is that families with children in the Life program typically don’t qualify for merit-based scholarships that many traditional students receive. This makes community support vital.

Join the Fun!

At the concert, ticket prices are a very family-friendly $10 for kids 12 and older, while children under 12 can join in for free! It’s a perfect opportunity for families to come together, enjoy some local food, and support a wonderful cause. Speaking of food, there will be five food trucks and 14 vendors at the event, all ready to serve delicious treats. Plus, get this—20% of their earnings from the night will be donated to the scholarship fund!

Want to join the celebration and do your part? Tickets are available for purchase online through the Icehouse Amphitheater’s website or at the door, just in case you decide on a last-minute family outing!

Looking Ahead

Lexington, this concert is more than just music—it’s about creating opportunities, inclusion, and a sense of belonging. The Life program opens up a world of possibilities, not just for Jules and Ava but for many students who have dreams of pursuing education and self-sufficiency. The community’s involvement in supporting such events highlights our commitment to nurturing every individual, regardless of their circumstances.

So, come on out this Friday, support your community, and let’s celebrate education, resilience, and the power of friendship together!