Austin’s 2nd Street District may be small geographically, but it’s big in every other way. Business owners and community organizers representing the eclectic and conveniently located shops, restaurants, luxury apartment communities, and entertainment venues take it upon themselves to organize philanthropic events that are both fun and humanitarian. One of these events, 2nd Street Soundcheck just completed its third successful run. Sensory and exciting, the event offered an afternoon filled with food, music, and fun. Proceeds went to the Darrell K. Royal Research Fund for Alzheimer’s Disease.
2nd Street Soundcheck History
Like many foundations and organizations in Austin, 2nd Street District has a philanthropic streak and strives to serve the community in exciting and interactive ways. First organized two years ago, 2nd Street Soundcheck is a perfect manifestation of the neighborhood’s dual commitment to the safety and well-being of its residents and humanitarian causes. At the same time, it also raises funds for a humanitarian foundation that seeks to make the world a better place for individuals afflicted by Alzheimer’s Disease and their families. While still young, 2nd Street Soundcheck has grown in size and scope since its inaugural year.
The 2014 Event
Held at the beginning of March, this year’s 2nd Street Soundcheck was an undeniable success. Emceed by local singer-songwriter Ginger Leigh, the event was attended by thousands of cheerful, music-loving Austinites. When Ginger wasn’t busy entertaining with the mic, other music genres filled the air. Included among the performers were East Cameron Folklore, Zeale, Broken Anchor, The Digital Wild, Leagues, Black Milk, and beloved son of Austin, Bob Schneider. Tasty snacks and meals from nearly two dozen local restaurants were available too.
Impact of The Event
While a day spent indulging in two of life’s most universal pleasures, music and food, was the most immediate impact of Austin’s third annual 2nd Street Soundcheck, the affect of the event will reverberate far beyond the ear canals of the thousands who turned up. Sales and exposure for local businesses who sponsored the event were a boon for the community, but the most important impact will last the longest: Awareness and funds raised for the Darrell K. Royal Research Fund for Alzheimer’s Disease.
AMLI and 2nd Street Soundcheck
Located in the heart of the 2nd Street District, AMLI on 2ND and AMLI Downtown are heavily involved in the neighborhoods affairs. AMLI South Shore and AMLI 300 along with other members of the AMLI FAMLI also volunteered. The Retail Marketing Manager for the 2nd Street District, Julie Sutton, played a major role in the organization of this year’s event. Commenting on its success, she said “The vibe was positive, people toted lots of shopping bags around, there was a line to all of your booths, multiple genres of live music filled the neighborhood, and we provided a fun, happy, safe, philanthropically-minded, community-focused event for the city we love. As with any event, however, there is room for improvement.” The Austin Police Department has already assured the 2nd Street District that it will be permitted to “set up beer sponsors on the blocks with stages next year,” a guarantee many attendees will no doubt look forward to. Hopefully this will translate into a further increase in the funds and awareness the event is able to raise for the Darrell K. Royal Research Fund for Alzheimer’s Disease.
If you weren’t able to make it to this year’s Soundcheck, its resounding success is a likely sign that a fourth annual event will take place next year. To support the Darrell K. Royal Research Fund for Alzheimer’s Disease in the meantime, visit DKRFund.org to learn about upcoming events, making a donation, and other ways in which you can offer your support.
Did you make it to 2nd Street Soundcheck on March 1st? If so, what was the highlight of the event for you?
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View All Posts by Jason Ernst