An evening of live music is planned for the Earle May Boat Basin on Saturday, April 23, courtesy of Southwest Georgia’s Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children.

In an effort to raise money, CASA has dubbed the event “229 Music Fest” and has booked four bands to take the stage at the boat basin’s Performing Arts Building and entertain Southwest Georgia: Caliber, Hybrid Minds, Serenity Hill and Midnight Matinee.

A CASA volunteer is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of an abused or neglected child involved in juvenile court deprivation proceedings. The CASA volunteers gather information about the child’s situation, attend court proceedings and make a recommendation to the judge so that the judge has the information to make a decision about the child’s future.

A CASA volunteer protects a child’s right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect and to learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family.

Southwest Georgia CASA includes Baker, Calhoun, Decatur, Grady and Mitchell counties.

Executive Director Nan McIntosh said the Department of Family and Children’s Services is overwhelmed, and can’t do their job alone. The 229 Music Fest is designed to raise money so CASA can continue to help children and recruit potential volunteers.

And of course, it provides something for Bainbridge residents to do on a Saturday night.

“It benefits the community that there is something to do,” McIntosh said. “It’s another event, and if we can make this an annual thing, people will look forward to this every year. It puts our name out there. We are targeting younger people who may also be interested in volunteering and being a part of our CASA program.”

McIntosh encouraged locals to bring a lawn chair or a blanket and enjoy the show. Vendors will also be on site, including barbecue. Businesses interested in vending at the event should contact Southwest Georgia CASA at (229) 248-1040.

The 229 Music Fest is sponsored by Dan West and Honor Sentinels and the Bainbridge Convention and Visitors Bureau, both of which McIntosh wanted to thank for their help.

Tickets are $10 apiece and can be purchased at Bainbridge City Hall, Bella’s Boutique and Headquarters.