For many of us, the Summer’s End concert is something great that happens the Friday of Labor Day Weekend. We don’t have to give it much thought – it just IS.

And it has been, for nearly 25 years. But here’s something a lot of us don’t realize: Summer’s End is put on by a small group of volunteers. It is not put on by the Town of East Greenwich. While the town assists in logistical planning and provides day-of police and public works support, as well as a financial contribution, the majority of work is done by a small group of volunteers that make of the Summer Arts and Festival Organization (SAFO) board.

The Board plans the entire day’s events including hiring of the musical performers and companies to handle the stage, sound and lighting; vetting of on-field vendors; coordinating volunteers; fundraising and providing special treats for donors who have gone above and beyond.

SAFO could use people who love this event and would like to see it continue.

SAFO also provides scholarships to EGHS students who are planning on pursuing the arts at the college level. In the past, SAFO provided after-school art class scholarships and supported the sidewalk art competition in town.

Recently, many board members have rotated off because either their board terms came to an end or they moved away. Because of that, SAFO is looking to add new board members to assist with fundraising, marketing, organization, logistics, and communication. New blood always adds a spark to an existing organization. SAFO could use people who love this event and would like to see it continue.

I personally became involved with the SAFO board over 10 years ago when approached by a board member. The Summer’s End concert always brings a smile to my face.  My family has been attending the event since its inception, when our children were still very young.  It was fun to go each summer and see all the kids in town and how they’d changed over the prior year.  The whole town truly came out for the event – from toddlers and young children to teenagers to parents to empty nesters, all together for a wonderful evening of music.

Now, it’s your turn to step up and help make this end-of-summer magic happen. 

Unbeknownst to many, there were several times over the years that the concert was in danger of not happening. It costs a lot to hold this event and people need to step up to help pull it off. Happily, Summer’s End has always managed to find a way to go on. Now, it’s your turn to step up and help make this end-of-summer magic happen. It’s an amazing feeling when you are part of something this special.

If you are interested in joining the board, contact Jessica Granatiero at [email protected] or Karen Cammuso at [email protected]. You will be glad you did!