In an effort to help those affected by the oil spills in the Gulf Coast, Oakland student Tara Taylor has organized a benefit concert on Sept. 17 at 6 p.m. at the Crofoot Ballroom in Pontiac.

Taylor said watching the news each day made her feel helpless  in the face of the efforts taking place in the Gulf region.

“I wanted to find a way to contribute to a larger extent, and I thought about what resources I had at my disposal,” said Taylor. “That’s when I had the idea about a benefit concert.”

After consulting friend and Crofoot manager Chad Nicefield to reserve the venue for the concert, Taylor began looking for bands. Taylor said she worried about bands lacking interest or being unwilling to play for free, but found that those she contacted were enthusiastic about the event.

Nicefield’s band, Wilson, will be headlining the event. Squid the Whale, Bat on Fire, The Boys of Summer, and Brena will also be contributing their time and talent to the benefit. Each band is scheduled to play for thirty minutes.

Following the concert will be an after party in the Vernors Room until 2 a.m. The party is for ages 18 and older. Taylor says admission is free, but drinks are not. Those attending the after party will be able to meet one of the bands.

Ticket prices are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. Taylor says the funds will be donated to charities; half will go to the National Wildlife Foundation, and the other half to the Environmental Defense Fund.

Taylor says her Gamma Phi Beta sorority sisters have provided strong support to her endeavors. Taylor said the sisters have even organized a committee to attend the concert.

Ticket purchases in advance can be found at www.thecrofoot.com/events or through any participating bands. Taylor said she is happy to meet with anyone on campus for ticket sales as well.

Those interested can contact Taylor at [email protected].