Chatham, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A summertime music festival organized not long after the tragedy at the YNOT facility in Chatham that killed several local youth has had a big result.
Jason Dolby, one of the organizers of Chatham StrongFest, says the July 6 daylong music festival raised $183,400.67.
The festival involved local musicians performing daylong at the city’s park, along with other activities, that raised funds for the families affected by the late-April crash that claimed five lives and injured others.
“Chatham StrongFest was built on the idea that when our community comes together, we can make a lasting impact,” said Jason Dolby, event founder, in a news release posted to social media. “This total represents not just dollars raised, but hope, support, and strength for affected families.”
The money was entrusted to the Chatham Jaycees as a fiduciary agent for the festival.
A driver whom authorities say is believed to have had a medical episode, ran her vehicle into YNOT April 29. Marianne Akers, 44, has not been charged. Family members told our news partners at WAND-TV earlier this week they’ve been told the investigation is ongoing.
“The StrongFest Committee extends heartfelt thanks to the entire Chatham community, to the first responders honored throughout the day, and most importantly, to the families whose strength and resilience continue to inspire this effort,” said Dolby.
