Penticton soprano Tracy Fehr sang for ambassadors, mayors, government ministers and other high profile guests on a recent concert tour in North Africa.
Singing in palace halls and municipal theatres, Fehr brought awareness to ACT, a livelihood project for North African single mothers and disadvantaged women. She is now looking to return to provide more assistance and is holding a fundraiser concert on Sunday.
Fehr’s hosts workshops and meets with many of the women currently being assisted by ACT. Among other initiatives, this non-profit organization helps unwed mothers and marginalized women receive training and funds to set up small home-based businesses. In addition to tours in Africa and the United Kingdom, Fehr fundraises for ACT by hosting annual Voices in Song benefit concerts in Penticton.
On May 4, Fehr and senior singers from her studio hope to assist a single mother to restock her market stall, which was wiped out in a flood. With a stocked store, she will once again be able to provide for her family without resorting to her former life as a street worker. Over the years, Fehr and singers have been able to raise money for a variety of projects. Last year the group successfully fundraised to help an abused mother purchase a motorcycle, which enables her to take her weaving to market, and provide for her family.
“She has more confidence, more respect as a business woman, and is now mentoring other young moms who are coming into the livelihood program,” says Fehr.
The concert will be held at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church at 7 p.m. Accompanists are: Dennis Nordlund (piano) and Elizabeth Lupton (violin).
Tickets are $12 in advance, and can be purchased at the Penticton and District Community Arts Council or from Fehr at 250-494-1042.