Edwardsville foundation seeking donations to build handicap accessible swing

‘Kelan’s Wish’ for wheelchair accessible swing

The Edwardsville Community Foundation has created a support fund to help raise $35,000 for renovations at the Edwardsville Township Community Park. This amount will pay for a wheelchair accessible swing, play pad, safety fence, shaded structure, bench and commemorative plaque. This fund was created to fulfill a wish by Kelan Masinelli, 10, who was diagnosed with a rare brain disorder when he was 4 months old. His wheelchair prevents him from enjoying the park swing like other boys.

Pam Farrar, the Edwardsville Community Foundation executive director, was quoted in a press release: “Kelan is such a brave, and selfless little boy, and when this play space is complete, it will be something the entire community, but especially those with disabilities, can enjoy.” To donate, go to www.edwardsvillecommunityfoundation.org, in the menu “Give Now,” select “Donate to a Fund,” and click “Kelan’s Wish.”

‘Connect-A-Vet’

A “Connect-A-Vet” event will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at the VFW Post 805, 221 W. 1st St., O’Fallon. This event features several non-profits who will be available to assist veterans, provide volunteer opportunities or a chance to network with other veterans to create support systems. Free hair cuts will be given to veterans as well as resume help. The Veterans Administration will be at this event to help with the Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery and Vet Centers.

Belleville Philharmonic groups seeking members

Auditions for the Belleville Philharmonic youth orchestra will be from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, and 5-7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21, at the Belleville Philharmonic Hall, 116 N. Jackson St., Belleville. Musicians with at least two to three years of experience on any instrument are invited to audition. Youth orchestra rehearsals take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays and begin on Aug. 28. The cost to participate is $70 for the whole season which goes through May. For more information, email bellevilleyouthorchestra@gmail.com or call 618-222-9218.

The Belleville Philharmonic Orchestra is seeking new members. Auditions are from 4-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, at the Belleville Philharmonic Hall or Sept. 7 by appointment. Rehearsals are held Thursday evenings and begin Sept. 14. For audition requirements or to schedule a time, contact Jeff Peterson at 618-604-7512 or tbonejeff@gmail.com.

The Belleville Philharmonic Chorale needs new members in all sections for its upcoming 2017-2018 season. Two open rehearsals will take place from 7:45 p.m.-9:45 p.m. Sept. 11 and Sept. 18. Auditions will be held at 7:45 p.m. Sept. 25. Information: Laura Veach, 618-972-3062 or laura.sings.4@gmail.com.

This story was originally published August 16, 2017 at 8:00 AM with the headline "Edwardsville foundation seeking donations to build handicap accessible swing."