No Road Back Music Event returns for 13th year with goal of raising $4,500 for cancer patients
Casandra Turnbull
Managing Editor
Seventeen musicians, 10 hours of live entertainment and one worthy cause will bring the community together this month as the 13th annual No Road Back Music Event returns to the Paris Legion.
The popular fundraiser takes place Saturday, Nov. 21, from noon to 10 p.m. at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 29, 70 William St., with proceeds supporting the Canadian Cancer Society’s Wheels of Hope transportation program.
After raising $4,100 last year, organizers are setting their sights a little higher this time around, hoping to bring in $4,500 to help cancer patients access transportation to and from their treatment appointments.
For event founder Jim Young, the fundraiser has always been about the generosity of a community willing to come together for its neighbours.
“I'd say it's because the community has a sincere spirit of care,” said Young when asked why people continue to attend and support the annual event.
That community spirit has been at the heart of No Road Back since its beginnings in 2013.
The event was originally inspired by Young's late friend Scott Johnson, who was passionate about cancer fundraising through the Movember campaign. Young decided to combine his love of live music with an opportunity to give back, organizing a small concert featuring just five musicians that raised approximately $600 in its first year.
Originally known as Music for the Mustache in honour of Johnson, the fundraiser was renamed No Road Back following his passing. The name carries a deeper meaning, symbolizing the importance of moving forward through recovery while honouring those affected by cancer.
More than a decade later, the event has grown into a full-day celebration of local musical talent, generosity and community connection.
This year's lineup features 17 musicians and musical acts, including Shawn Blackmore, Trevor Cobb, Silvia Dee and the Boyfriend, Roadtrip, Bailey Robb, Doc Sandman, Loose Moralz, Allie Stenhouse and The Die Hards, among others.
All performers volunteer their time, allowing the event to direct its fundraising efforts toward Wheels of Hope, a program that helps ease the financial and logistical burden of travelling to cancer treatments.
For patients who must make repeated trips to hospitals and treatment centres, reliable transportation can make an enormous difference. The program also relies on volunteer drivers who generously donate their time to help patients access the care they need.
While the event continues to grow, this year's preparations have not been without challenges.
Organizers have lost their sound professional this year and are urgently seeking someone with the necessary experience who would be willing to donate a Saturday to help keep the music running smoothly.
Anyone able to offer professional sound services is encouraged to contact Young. Local businesses and individuals interested in sponsoring the fundraiser are also welcome to get involved.
Despite that setback, organizers are looking forward to another successful day filled with music, friendship and community generosity.
Admission is free, and food will be available throughout the day. Guests are encouraged to drop in, enjoy the performances and make a donation if they are able.
Donations can be made in cash at the event or by e-transfer to parislegion29@rogers.com.
Those interested in volunteering their sound expertise or providing sponsorship can contact Jim Young at offsideyoung@gmail.com.
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