When my son Noah recently joined the First Panamanian Marching Band, I thought I was simply giving him an opportunity to try something new. I had no idea we were about to become part of such a beautiful community. Noah is 8 years old and has Down syndrome. From the very beginning, this band welcomed him with open arms. They didn’t focus on what he couldn’t do or treat him differently. They gave him an opportunity to learn, participate, practice alongside everyone else, and truly become part of their band family. As his mom, that means more to me than I can put into words.

As I started learning more about the band, the instruments, uniforms, practices, and everything that goes into preparing for performances, I also learned about the sacrifices some of its members are making just to participate. Several members are traveling all the way from Panama to New York to perform in the upcoming Panamanian Parade and Hispanic Day Parade. Some have been saving for their airfare for an entire year. Others have worked to raise money for accommodations. And some are still trying to find the money they need for their uniforms.

A uniform costs approximately $200 per person. This fundraiser is to help provide uniforms for members who have already sacrificed so much just to get here and represent Panama, their culture, and their community.

This touches me personally because years ago, my own parents opened their home to about 15 band members who traveled from Panama and needed somewhere to stay. They slept in my parents’ basement because that’s what community does, we help one another however we can. Now, years later, I find myself with an opportunity to do the same in a different way.

The band opened its arms to Noah, and Noah and I would love to give some of that love back. They gave my son a place where he belongs. If you’re able to donate or share this fundraiser, your support will help band members get the uniforms they need and show them that their community is even bigger than they imagined.