On Thursday, March 14, 2024, music legends Rick Allen of Def Leppard and Lauren Monroe are to host an electrifying All-Star Jam at The Cutting Room in New York City. The event, benefiting the Raven Drum Foundation (RDF) and Friends of Firefighters, brings together an impressive lineup of musical talents for a night of philanthropic performances.
The special guests include renowned artists such as Paul Shaffer and Will Lee (the World’s Most Dangerous Band), Peter Criss (KISS), Jim Keltner (Ringo Starr, John Lennon, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, The Traveling Wilburys), Eddie Brigati (The Rascals), Liberty DeVitto (Billy Joel), Duane Trucks (Widespread Panic), Shawn Pelton (Saturday Night Live Band), Corky Laing (Mountain), Christine Ohlman (Saturday Night Live Band), Simon Kirke (Bad Company), and more. Maria Milito of Q104.3 will serve as the emcee for the night, with musical direction by RDF board member Billy Amendola.
The festivities are to kick off with an upscale VIP affair, where guests can mingle with the artists, engage in a silent auction, and savor light snacks and complimentary beverages. Attendees will be treated to an array of exclusive items up for bidding, including one-of-a-kind mixed media pieces crafted by Allen and Monroe, VIP passes for Def Leppard’s upcoming summer tour, and signed memorabilia from the talented lineup of artists.
RDF, founded by Rick Allen and Lauren Monroe over 20 years ago, has been dedicated to serving, educating, and empowering trauma survivors and communities in crisis, with a particular focus on Veterans and First Responders. By integrating advocacy, storytelling, music, and arts programs, RDF brings complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) tools and experiences to support mental health, resiliency, and unity.
Teaming up with Friends of Firefighters, a charitable organization formed in the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, RDF sought to offer complimentary, confidential, and autonomous mental health counseling and wellness programs to both active and retired members of the FDNY and their families. Nancy Carbone, Executive Director of Friends of Firefighters, conveyed appreciation for the collaboration, highlighting the essential nature of mental health assistance for the brave firefighters of New York City.
Friends of Firefighters aligns with our mission by offering mental health support and access to alternative medicine to NYC firefighters at no cost. We’re honored by our legendary artist community’s support for Raven Drum’s first event at The Cutting Room. We’re excited to play in New York, creating a fantastic night of music, strengthening our community bonds, and raising funds and awareness for this vital cause!
Rick Allen and Lauren Monroe
RDF’s fundraising and awareness-building efforts have been on the rise, with both online and in-person events occurring nearly year-round. The March 14th event marks RDF’s first benefit in NYC for 2024, with plans for future events, including their beloved drum circle and benefit for Northern California firefighters and first responders in April. With their dedication to supporting mental health and well-being, Rick Allen, Lauren Monroe, and the Raven Drum Foundation continue to make a positive impact on communities and people in crisis.
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