SCHUYLKILL COUNTY, Pa. — Two non-profits in Schuylkill County, the Coal Region Brotherhood and Abandoned Miners, came together to host an inaugural music fest to benefit veterans.
This event is especially near and dear to coordinator Jennifer Miller's heart.
"My grandfather was a coal miner. He was a very proud Marine. Sergeant in WW2. This is him. He's the reason for my mission. He is why I'm here today. I helped coordinate this event along with many others. These two non-profits have worked very hard to bring this together," said Jennifer Miller, event coordinator, Coal Region Brotherhood.
The music fest for veterans had a full lineup of live music, the classic fair lemonade, food, and fun.
Organizers say they reached three times their goal in ticket sales.
"We're expecting close to 2,000 people today," said Miller.
"Oh, this is totally awesome, and the crowd here, the people that turn out. A lot of friends, a lot of people we don't know, but it's a community event, and people come from far and wide," said Dave Kurtz, Pine Grove.
"Well, our dealership, we really like to be out in the community. Our family really likes to support the veterans, so we're just glad to be out here, and the first one has a pretty good turnout so," said Maggie Calderone, Schaeffer's Harley-Davidson.
All of the proceeds of the music fest go towards Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors.
According to officials of the organization, it has helped more than 17,000 wounded veterans in Pennsylvania to date.
"It's amazing. I feel honored to be here. I can't thank anyone enough," said La Ray Hlavaty, Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Ambassador.
Officials got emotional thinking about the outpouring of support from the community for the first-ever music fest for veterans.
"I have cried more tears today than I think I have my whole life, and it's not even 3 p.m.," said Miller.
"I think it's only going to get better with each year. Beautiful day, so I'm glad the weather held out as well," said Hlavaty.