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Neighbor News

Secrest Wardle Supports GR Area Girls Choral Academy Benefit

Secrest Wardle supported the benefit as a "Member of the Choir" sponsor

Secrest Wardle Partner, Amanda Fopma, and Grand Rapids Office Manager and Paralegal, Laurie Weaver, attended the Girls Choral Academy (GCA) “Let Their Voice Be Heard” fundraising event on November 16th, 2017. The 20th season celebration took place at the St. George Banquet Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The dinner event gave those in attendance an opportunity to learn more about GCA's endeavors to provide girls across west Michigan with the opportunity to learn leadership skills and to elevate their level of self-confidence through music. Secrest Wardle proudly served as a “Member of the Choir” sponsor. Proceeds from the event support a major portion of the organization's operating budget.

Both Amanda Fopma and Laurie Weaver believe in the positive effects that the GCA's outreach to young women through music has had in the community.


Amanda Fopma commented on the evening: “It was a wonderful event with lovely performances by the talented Girls Choral Academy. This organization provides girls and young women who enjoy singing with many opportunities they would not otherwise have had. The GCA promotes acceptance, diversity, respect and development of a strong sense of self-worth. They also encourage members of the Academy to make a dedicated effort to achieve their goals, no matter how lofty they may be.”

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Laurie Weaver, also reflected on the event: “It was a nice event for a very worthy cause. I enjoyed the performances by the girls’ choirs, awards and speeches by donors. Overall, it was a pleasant evening filled with great enthusiasm about the program.”


Founded in 1997, the GCA provides excellent music education in a safe and positive setting where girls can explore a varied repertoire of choral music. They encourage and teach girls to excel as artists and musicians while providing opportunities for girls to collectively learn self-confidence, self-esteem and leadership skills. The Academy cultivates confident musicians and strong community stewards.

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Secrest Wardle is a law firm specializing in defense litigation and counsel for insurance, municipal, and commercial clients headquartered in Troy, Michigan, with additional offices in Grand Rapids and Lansing. For additional information, please visit www.secrestwardle.com.

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