Bands reach out to help others

This holiday season, there are many ways to get involved in the community and help others. In this recurring feature, we’ll highlight 12 ways of giving, whether it’s time, gifts, supplies, money or compassion.

What: WonderRoot’s Battle of the Bands, a competition among local unsigned musicians to see who can put in the most volunteer hours.

Who it helps and how: Local nonprofits that band members choose to support will get more volunteers, and the Atlanta Community Food Bank will receive food donations from audience members at the Feb. 28 band showcase.

How to get involved: Musicians/bands can sign up through Dec. 15 at www.wonderroot.org/signup.php,and tally volunteer hours between Dec. 1-Jan. 31. The top five volunteer groups will play Lenny’s Bar on Feb. 28, when the winner will be announced. The prize: Recording time at WonderRoot’s studio in Reynoldstown with producer Graham Marsh. Fans can help, too, by bringing three cans of food to the Feb. 28 show. And for each fan contestants bring that night, they’ll earn another service credit.

Why help?: To bridge the gap between artists and communities, says WonderRoot co-director Chris Appleton: “This is an opportunity to give back to the communities that support them.”

To learn more: Go online to www.wonderroot.org or wrstudio.blogspot.com. Or call 404-254-5955.

Know of a nonprofit agency or effort that could use help this holiday season? Or want to find other ways to help? Go online to http://dogood.ajc.com. Find more giving opportunities at www.ajc.com/holiday, or join the blog and share your story of helping others.