Kidzapalooza V.I.R. Concert with Common Threads at The James Chicago

Over 125 of Chicago’s littlest rockers jammed out at The James Chicago for the fifth Kidzapalooza Very Important Rocker (V.I.R.) concert on Sunday, August 3, 2014. Together with Common Threads, the national non-profit dedicated to teaching children the importance of nutritious eating, The James hosted popular performers from the Kidzapalloza stage at Lollapalooza for acoustic “unplugged” performances for area families. Food partners Lifeway and Quaker Oats handed out samples throughout the event and families paid a $10 donation to Common Threads for admittance.

Kidzapalooza founder, Tor Hyams, kicked off the event by welcoming all families, introducing each act, and educating parents about Common Threads. Kindie rockers including Ralph’s World, Brady Rymer, Laura Doherty & Jeanie B of the Kindie All-Stars and The Happiness Club entertained while kids danced and sang spiritedly. Singer Jeanie B concluded the concert by leading a “dance train” of both kids and parents through the Great Room of the James Chicago.

After the concert ended, Common Threads Chef Instructor Melody McLeod with her Chef Assistant (and son), Cameron, performed a healthy eating demo of homemade granola made with Quaker oats to teach kids and parents the importance of healthy eating. After the cooking demonstration, Melody and Cameron gave out Mueller yogurt with the homemade granola for guests to enjoy “to go”.

Thanks to the generosity of Kidzapalooza supporters, the event raised more than $700 for Common Threads. The funds raised at Kidzapalooza will further team Quaker Oats and Common Threads as they vie to raise the most money and volunteer the most time in the Chicago Charity Challenge, an employee-powered charity competition amongst local businesses. Since the Chicago Cha Cha launched in May, Quaker Oats’ employees have raised more than $10,000 and volunteered more than 108.5 hours to support Common Threads.