Think back to your teen years and the big existential questions that plagued you. Jen Band founded Playing for Others (PFO) in 2006 to help teens explore and answer a few of those questions, particularly relating to personal purpose and philanthropy. Through a ten-month program in leadership development, service, and the arts, PFO’s teens learn more about themselves and discover ways to give back to others.
“Imagine a community populated with young people who not only have a deep understanding of self and purpose, but also understand the value of connecting with others and living out the definition of philanthropy as giving of their time, talents, and treasure,” said Jen when asked why PFO is important for Charlotte. She has dedicated her time, talent, and treasure to grooming the next generation of innovative leaders, philanthropists, and compassionate human beings.
PFO hosts several events this fall that b2bTRIBE readers are encouraged to attend for a dose of inspiration from talented and passionate young people. A Night of Gratitude, held on October 8, is a concert to honor ten local philanthropists with original songs written by PFO teens. You can nominate someone for the honor at playingforothers.org. In November, Connecting Charlotte will celebrate Charlotte’s philanthropic community. This spring, look for the PFO Arts Festival.
Jen went full-time into PFO in 2009. Prior to that, she was the in-school coordinator as well as a teacher and director for the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.
Melisa Graham is the communications director at SPARK Publications, editor of b2bTRIBE magazine, author of Used Cow for Sale (a collection of poetry, mom, and wife.
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