Rocking for Inclusion

This past fall, I had the pleasure of experiencing Rocking for Inclusion’s debut performance at the Montclair Community Farms Fall Festival. “Partners for Health”, of which my husband is a board member, funds the Montclair Community Farms and we were there through them, enjoying the festivities.

While we were mingling, I began to hear live music drifting across the ground. A band was playing classic rock covers, and they were terrific. They quickly drew a crowd, and there was palpable energy in the air. After a few songs, I connected with the group’s director, Kevin March, and learned that the musicians identify as part of the neurodivergent and disabled community.

Just then, the band launched into an incredible cover of Amy Winehouse’s “Valerie,” and I immediately knew we needed to bring them to the WAE Center. Rocking for Inclusion’s mission aligns beautifully with our own; celebrating individuality, fostering belonging, and creating opportunities for people to share their talents and grow through creative expression.

Kevin and I worked together over the following months to get them to the WAE Center, and on Tuesday, February 10, Rocking for Inclusion absolutely electrified us all. The music was so dynamic that it drew everyone downstairs in the building. Members, staff, and guests were on their feet, dancing, singing along, and fully immersed in the experience. The set included classics from Bon Jovi, Journey, Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Beatles, and Bruce, along with original songs that were equally powerful and memorable.