“Honored.”

It’s a word both Hannah Draus and Hailey Rivera use to describe how they feel about performing at NEPA Sings.

“Being able to help children who aren’t able to really help themselves is an amazing thing,” said Hailey, 17. “The idea that this event could help change even one child’s life makes me so honored to be part of it.”

Hannah, 16, is honored as well, but for slightly different reasons.

“It is truly an honor being a part of this wonderful event,” she said. “When I was a baby, I was in the foster care system myself, so this benefit is extra special to me. “I was extremely blessed that I was placed with a loving and caring family that provided me with everything I needed and made me the person I am today. So many children may not ever have a family like I was lucky enough to get, so being part of an event such as this, to help children get the voice they deserve, is beyond rewarding for me.”

Hailey is in 11th grade at Coughlin and feels like every performer in this competition is deserving of the first place trophy, but also that there’s a bigger reason for the evening.

“I believe that everyone deserves to win just as much as I do,” she said. “No matter what, this is to benefit the kids who need help. That’s what matters most to me.”

Hannah is homeschooled and lives in White Haven and agrees with Hailey.

“Although it would be an honor to win, as it would be to anyone, that is not the reason I auditioned for NEPA Sings,” she said. “I want my voice to be hears so it can help raise money for these children. Being chosen as one of the 12 finalists and getting to sing with 11 amazingly talented people is a price all by itself.”

If you’d like to hear Hailey and Hannah sing their hearts out for a great cause, click here and purchase your tickets. For $25 each, your ticket not only includes performances from 12 of the area’s most talented singers, but also a one-hour cocktail reception. Children 12 and under are admitted to the show for free!

NEPA Sings will be held on Thursday, April 11 at 5:30 p.m. at the Kirby Center for the Creative Arts at Wyoming Seminary’s Upper Campus in Kingston. Tickets are also available with cash or check at the Greater Wilkes Barre Chamber of Commerce, the KCCA at SEM, or the CASA of Luzerne County office. You can also purchase tickets at the door the same way! Hope to see you there!