Brotherly Love: Singers Make A Joyful Noise
WESTMONT, N.J. (CBS) - A South Jersey choir has its eyes on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
You might not notice it at first, but the singers have disabilities, some cognitive, some physical. Still, they're filled with joy.
Choir director Allison Fromm started the Joyful Noise Singers, inspired by her sister Beth, who loves to sing.
"There was a time when I thought it would be wonderful if my sister had the opportunity to sing with her friends," said Fromm, who flies from her home in Illinois to South Jersey a few times a month to lead the 40 adults in song.
In the last ten years, they've performed all over the area and even in other states.
"I think I came a long way!" said Leslie Weeks, one of the members of the chorus.
Soloist Todd Emmons has been with the group ten years.
"Anybody with disabilities they have could do it," said Emmons.
Watch The Video ...
Joyful Noise has been invited to sing in Chicago for the American Choral Directors Association, the first choir with disabilities to ever be invited!
"It just means a lot to me that other people can look at us and say, 'Wow, look at what they can do,' instead of what they can't do," said singer Ingrid Foster. "I think it's really inspiring for people," agreed Allison Fromm. "They do stare at them, but stare at them in awe."
The group needs about $30,000 to pay for the trip, but they're confident they'll get there.
One of their fundraisers is at noon Saturday in Westmont. A soup and sandwich lunch will be held at Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Parish/Church of the Holy Savior, 50 Emerald Avenue, Westmont, NJ, followed by a 2 p.m. benefit concert. There's an accessible entrance on Virginia Avenue. Lunch tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children. There is no admission cost for the concert.
For more information on Joyful Noise, CLICK HERE.
Reported by Dave Huddleston, CBS 3
