Supporting music therapy
Since opening Bynx, we’ve always had a desire to give back to the Orlando community and have been supporting various initiatives within our walls on East Church Street. While we have spent the last few years getting familiar with the ins and outs of running our business, we knew we’d eventually find a way to expand our efforts to provide broader community support. Then we discovered Joyful Music Therapy Foundation and the pieces began to fall into place.
The Bynx Charity
Throughout his 30 plus years in the corporate world, John — our cofounder — had plenty of experience rallying people for various initiatives, aligning with youth initiatives through technology or providing support to the creative community. His golf tournaments, for example, became legendary among his cohorts across Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America. Not only were they a great way to network, stay connected and have some fun, the tournaments ultimately supported important community initiatives. So, it came as no surprise when friends and family near and far signed up for the first-ever Bynx fundraising event.
True to form, on April 19th, we unofficially launched the Bynx Charity with a golf tournament here in Orlando. It was a reunion of sorts, so the energy was positive and not without a touch of sentimentality. Spirits were high and people were just happy to be there in support of Bynx, their friends and this new charity.
While the golf tournament was all fun and games and subsequent prizes awarded, additional funds were raised through auction items including a signed Orlando Magic basketball and a signed Zlatan Ibrahimovic jersey from Manchester United. At the shop later that night, people cheered and laughed as the winners made their way to the stage to pose with their awards. The atmosphere of camaraderie was palpable that night.
The Cause: Music Therapy
Then came the speeches, led by Board Member Denise Williams and the charity’s architect, John Reid. Emotions were high as he thanked the familiar faces in the crowd for their participation and announced the initial organization they’d all be helping.
Tamela Ponder, the Joyful Music Therapy Foundation (JMTF) founder, was up next. As she explained, JMTF “exists to fund, educate and advocate for music therapy. We share the transformative power of music therapy through local, state, and national advocacy and provide opportunities for music therapy programs, practice, and research.” She expressed her gratitude to all the people who showed up and explained the importance of her organization’s initiative to aid in people physical and mental health struggles.
Just The Beginning
Needless to say, our inaugural event was a heart-warming show of support and we are beyond happy to have had such a strong start for the Bynx Charity. We are proud to announce we raised $6,000 for JMTF.
Still, this is just the beginning. As we continue to grow our business, we’ll also continue to expand our efforts to help our local community. We hope to see you right alongside us!
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