A special blog section highlighting local good-doers, helpers and heroes.

The Jazz Association of Macon (JAM) has launched a relief fund to support area musicians suffering economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month of May, JAM will match individual donations to the Musician Relief Fund up to a maximum amount of $2,000.

The matching program is for individual and corporate donations made until May 31, 2020. Those donations will be matched by the Jazz Association of Macon on a dollar-for-dollar basis up to a maximum match of $2,000.

Donors are encouraged to make contributions at the JAM website at maconjazz.org. JAM is a tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.

Musicians may apply for the relief fund by May 31 by completing and submitting a simple one-page application at maconjazz.org/musicianresources.

“In this extraordinary time, the Jazz Association of Macon is concerned about the hardships on musicians who have had their livelihoods severely disrupted,” said Dr. Neil Rigole, President of the Jazz Association of Macon. “We know musicians rely on special events, church services and performances and those have evaporated with the COVID-19 epidemic.” Rigole added, “JAM has been part of this community for over 30 years. We’ve never experienced such a disruption in our lives. Because our mission is to promote and encourage live jazz performances and an appreciation of jazz music, a matching gift fund makes sense for our organization.”

Donations in excess of the JAM match will go toward the Musicians Relief Fund.

Submit your ideas for local good-doers, helpers and heroes to hello@maconmagazine.com, and share these good stories on social media with hashtag #MaconGoodDoers.