My mother, the late Susan B. Ford, was involved with Jazz Bridge in it's formation. She along with the founders, Wendy Simon and Suzanne Cloud, came together with countless others to give something back. Not just for the musicians they help, but to the people that need it most - talented and gifted people who just don't always have what they need to get the job done.

Jazz Bridge allows individuals to share their gift with the public at large. And it's a wonderful thing to behold. From the woman who needs dental work to smile at her audience while she plays to the 90 year old musician who needed legal assistance for righting a wrong.

This isn't an organization about politics or the color of skin... they help ANYONE in the music business get a fair shake and who, for whatever reason, are without resources. Jazz Bridge has formed incredible relationships with the community at large. Medical, legal, psychological and local government, just to name a few.

Through Community Concerts in PA & NJ, they raise money to pay musicians for their performances and put something back in the till, for a rainy day. It's hard to balance providing music to the community and helping musicians in need, but that what Jazz Bridge is ALL about.

It would be easy to just go along in life and ignore what is put before you, but Jazz Bridge is about helping and giving back, unconditionally. With the public's assistance, more people in the arts can be helped. It doesn't happen unless you get on board. I did and I am better for it.