Building upon the success of its first physically distant, socially connected fundraiser that introduced guests to new ways to experience the riverfront last fall, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy announced details today of the second #BeingApartTogether, which takes place on Thursday, July 8.
In 2020, the Conservancy launched #BeingApartTogether to help raise funds to support the maintenance and operations of the riverfront during the pandemic, and it was a huge success. More than 4,000 people tuned in to watch the musical performances, and the event raised over $175,000 to support the Conservancy.
Presented by Citizens, this year’s #BeingApartTogether is a continued celebration of the important role Detroit Riverfront parks play in the community, and it offers supporters an opportunity to help maintain the essential work that the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy does to provide a safe, clean, beautiful riverfront for all.
As presenting sponsor of the Conservancy’s annual Soirée on the Greenway fall fundraiser since 2018 and presenting sponsor of the first #BeingApartTogether last year, Citizens is proud to continue their commitment to help meet the Conservancy’s mission of maintaining and sustaining their work along the riverfront.
“When you have the #1 Riverwalk in the country, it is imperative that organizations like ours make sure it thrives,” said Joseph Dennison, senior vice president of community development at Citizens. “The work happening along the riverfront is vital to the economic development of the City of Detroit and we are honored to continue to be part of its story by making this community event possible for all Detroiters.”
Supporters of #BeingApartTogether can purchase family-friendly packages curated in partnership with Detroit’s own City Bird. The packages are filled with limited-edition riverfront items, locally-sourced gifts, and unique activities for outdoor fun that can be enjoyed from the comfort of their own backyard or during a visit to the riverfront.
There are three packages available for purchase. Packages can be purchased here.
The Family Fun Package for $250 includes a #1 Riverwalk baseball cap and canvas bag, a balsa glider, Detroit Riverfront Populace Coffee, a hologram sticker, mini craft cocktail syrup, sonography cards, fishing kit, sidewalk chalk, an activity zine, and a mystery grab bag.
The Riverfront Essentials Package is $100 and includes the #1 Riverwalk baseball cap, a balsa glider, Detroit Riverfront Populace Coffee, a hologram sticker, and an activity zine.
The Buy-A-Package, Give-A-Package program for $400 not only provides an individual supporter with a Family Fun Package but allows a family from one of the Conservancy’s charity partners to receive a box of summer fun as well. Partners include the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan, The Children’s Center, JazzyKat/Urban Fit Kids, Starfish Family Services, and Healthy Kids Summer Jam Day Camp.
This year’s #BeingApartTogether will also offer the community a joyful evening of genre-spanning music in an engaging Battle of the Bands format featuring four local bands competing for a chance to win a cash prize and a headlining spot on the main stage at a future River Days event.
The performances will be premiered on the Conservancy’s Facebook page. Voting begins immediately following the final performance and continues until July 15. The winning performer will be announced on July 19.
The bands scheduled to perform include:
New World Soul, Presented by Friends of Robert C. Valade Park – the returning 2020 #BeingApartTogether fan favorites will perform a high energy set of pop, R&B, and soul. https://www.facebook.com/
New Music Detroit – This collective of musicians will perform new and adventurous classical music from the late 20th century to the present day. https://www.facebook.com/
Lvrboy – Presented by D. Cipher, Lvrboy will deliver a selection of alternative soul and R&B. https://www.instagram.com/
The Aston Neighborhood Pleasure Club – Presented by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is an acoustic ensemble evoking the spirit of New Orleans street bands. https://www.facebook.com/
The Conservancy invites the public to like and follow these talented performers leading up the concert. They might even stumble upon them filming along the Dequindre Cut or at Valade Park in the month leading up to the Battle of the Bands.
Prior to the 6 p.m. Battle of the Bands, Detroit Experience Factory is hosting a free and engaging virtual tour at 4:30 p.m. for anyone interested in gaining a better understanding of the past, present, and future of the riverfront parks and landmarks. Visit detroitriverfront.org/