Concert to benefit Tails of Hope

HERMITAGE — Musician and singer Stephen Christopher Kelleher will perform at a benefit concert and fundraiser Feb. 24 for the Tails of Hope animal spay and neuter clinic.

Presented by Mortals Key Brewing Co. and hosted by 40 Below, the concert will take place at the ACTS Performing Arts Center in downtown Sharon, event-goers will experience an intimate concert, from Kelleher — a registered ASCAP recording artist, member of The Songwriters Guild of America, and named “one of Pittsburgh’s Premier Songwriters” in 2007 by the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Kelleher, born in McKeesport, found his artistic home within a genre he calls “passionate acoustic rock,” a self-created classification that describes the emotional depth and sincerity that defines his songwriting.

A skilled guitarist, Stephen has graced the stages of premier live music venues across western Pennsylvania, Cleveland and Nashville. for over 30 years. Stephen has written over 200 original compositions, the release states.

In August 2007, Stephen released his debut full-length CD, “Long Story Short,” a compilation of 12 original compositions. Produced by the late Pittsburgh-based Buddy Hall, the album showcases Stephen’s ability to translate life’s narratives into compelling musical stories.

Kelleher said in a press release that he found an opportunity to perform in Sharon while helping the animal organization.

“Recently, a local community leader in Sharon, whom I had shared my music with a few years ago, approached me about performing at 40 Below. After careful consideration, I agreed, but on the condition that it could be a platform to support a local organization through fundraising,” Kelleher said.

“As those words came out of my mouth, a perfect reason emerged – Tails of Hope Spay and Neuter Clinic. As a farm owner, nature enthusiast, animal lover, and Tails of Hope client, I wholeheartedly believe in their mission. I greatly admire their dedication and hard work, recognizing the invaluable services they provide both to the animals and the community. It is truly an honor for me to contribute in any way possible and a humbling experience to be invited to support their mission.”

All proceeds from the fundraiser will go to Tails of Hope, the only 501c3 nonprofit low-cost to no-cost spay/neuter clinic in Mercer County. Tails of Hope has spayed/neutered and provided vaccinations for over 14,000 pet and homeless cats and dogs from Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio since its doors opened in 2017, the release states.

Tails of Hope’s work addresses the root cause of pet overpopulation, the reason so many animals are homeless or enter shelters in the first place and depends on private charitable donations to provide its lifesaving services.

In addition to the live musical performance, the benefit concert event also offers food sales by Haitian Sensation, a 50/50 raffle, lottery tree raffle, a free door prize raffle, and complimentary swag bag. Tickets for the event are $20. Seating is limited.