Country rocker Leah Durelle is back in the saddle singing for one of her mother’s favourite charities.
After touring for a year with high-octane band Sweet Tequila, Durelle spent the last few months laying low from the music scene planning new career moves.
Eager for another go, the soft-spoken country singer with the big belt puts her powerful vocals to the test in a benefit concert and auction for Little Warriors Be Brave Ranch on Saturday, April 9 at the Beer Hunter Bar & Grill.
Little Warriors Be Brave Ranch is a long-term treatment centre for sexually abused children. Each child enjoys a 28-day stay at the ranch. After the initial stay, children can return throughout the year for additional face-to-face therapy.
Janis Richards, Durelle’s long time momma-manager, has long been partial to supporting charities for the sexually abused after a family member was exploited in their youth.
“There’s so much self-loathing going on after it happens. And it happened in an era where everybody knew about it, but nobody did anything,” said Richards.
The result was a common one – anxiety, depression and a series of addiction issues.
“So many people are destroyed by abuse. And then they are re-victimized again by drugs and alcohol.”
Although Richards’ relative’s life was drastically altered, there continues to be hope with organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Hope Mission providing support.
“When you’ve dealt with family addiction issues, you see that no one starts out that way. And once it happens, it affects a whole family and friends surrounding you.”
Richards says that this is a crucial fundraiser since the ranch’s funding has dropped due to the sluggish economy.
“The government has lots of regulations and the Little Warriors have not completed all their qualifications, and the government doesn’t move very fast.”
Organizers hope to reduce the funding burden with the auction and Richards is grateful to St. Albert’s generous support.
Businesses and individuals have donated a variety of items from dash cams, car seat covers, and signed Oilers photos to a knife set, quilts and hair products. There are numerous gift certificates available for dinner theatre, spas, chiropractic treatment, dog grooming and house cleaning.
As bidding wars heighten throughout the evening the Leah Durelle Band, rounded out with Paul Van Ramshorst (guitar), Dennis Boisvert (drums), Nick Samoil (keyboard) and Steve Farrell (bass), will rock the crowds.
Their set list includes a broad swath of songs ranging from Wasted Days and Wasted Nights and Any Man of Mine to Come Together and Two More Bottles of Wine.
The silent auction runs from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and entertainment starts at 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Donation tickets are $10 at the door and Beer Hunter will donate 10 per cent of the tab to Little Warriors.
Auction items are still being accepted. Call 780-995-2807.
