After facing her own health battles, Wendy Edge created Bulldozer Health to help others battling illness and disease access alternative health care.
Now, the organization is raising money with a series of monthly concerts, which rotate among venues like Electric Haze, Bull Mansion and Spiritual Haze. Edge said a host of local bands play at these events to help bring the community together to raise money and lift their spirits. Some of the local Worcester musicians that play at the events have traveled along the coast to play and speak about the organization.
The funds from these club nights go to help clients pay for alternative health care.
“The bands love what Bulldozer Health stands for and what they are trying to accomplish and often try to do more shows after doing one. Music brings the community together and promotes inspiration and healing for a happy and healthy life,” Edge said.
The first event for Bulldozer Health, co-sponsored by the New England Veteran’s Alliance, was held in November at Electric Haze, with six bands and motivational speeches.
Bulldozer not only uses the shows to raise money but also as structure for motivation and education. The shows feature some alternative health care providers and artists to help those who need it find alternative care.
In December, for example, the show featured mental massage workshops included in the price of the ticket. The Motivact Group, Renew with Kim, and Revitalize Massage and Yoga not only provided the workshop but were available to answer questions and sell their products, along with Art Reach, Art by Zophia and Carol Record Jewelry.
“Working with local alternative health providers and artists is very important to Bulldozer Health,” Edge said. “And this event was a huge success meeting our goals and education, access to care and inspiration.”
The heart of Bulldozer Health is its volunteers and community, Edge said. She said they are constantly working to reach out to the community, and the concerts are just one way to get the word out. With social media such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, Bulldozer Health is at people’s fingertips. The organization wants to educate by providing films, podcasts, blogs, YouTube health tips, newsletters, music and art.
Hosting these events makes it easier for the patients to go out and talk to people.
“People are so generous,” Edge said. “People genuinely want to help.”
Bulldozer’s next benefit concert, which will also celebrate the passage of Question 4, will be at 8 p.m. Jan. 13 at Spiritual Haze, 589 Park Ave. in Worcester. Tickets are $10. For more information, visit bulldozerhealth.org or like it on Facebook.
By Kendall Korengold | Photos by Brian Jackson