It seems the battle between wants and needs will never end.

They continually cross each other's paths, one always trumping the other.

A ski pass instead of books, a v-neck instead of lunch, a weekend trip to Vegas.

It's a story of sacrifices.

Maybe it's better told by a child from Uganda, from someone who knows more of diseases than doctors and of poverty than prosperity.

On Thursday, Sept. 25, the American Fork Amphitheater will house a benefit concert to tell the Ugandan story. Put on by HELP International, the concert serves to help eliminate poverty in the centrally-located African country.

Ashley Rogers, HELP International's country director for Uganda, acknowledges that the need for assistance in Uganda is prevalent.

"Our projects are great, and we help a lot," Rogers said, "but there's always so much more that can be done."

Tickets for the concert are $8 when purchased in advance and $10 at the door. All proceeds go to assist children and families in Uganda.

TMinus5, an a cappella group nationally recognized for their upbeat and multi-genre performances, will take the stage at the benefit. Cherie Call, a BYU graduate, and Debra Fotheringham, an American Fork native, will also perform. The Lone Peak high school choir will take part in the evening as well.

"The concert will portray the power we have as students and young professionals to go out and make a difference in the world," Rogers said.

The performances will end with the high school choir and a video that shows HELP International's services in Uganda. Attendees will also learn of additional opportunities to assist the country.

The amphitheater for the concert is located at 851 E. 700 North in American Fork. The show will start at 6:30 p.m., and all must be in their seats at that time. Tickets can be bought through the McKay Events Center at UVU, the American Fork Arts Council Office or the HELP International Office.

HELP International is an organization focused on eliminating poverty. Volunteers travel to needy countries and work to establish foundations in the community and provide for the needs of the people. HELP is currently accepting applications for volunteers. Visit www.help-international.org/home.shtml for more details.



Copyright Brigham Young University 24 Sep 2008