‘Hope in the Valley’ premieres with Ryan Stevenson

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The Arts Council of South Wood County has partnered with a couple of local businessmen with hearts for our community. A Christian concert will be held each summer, with a different local organization being the recipient of the proceeds from each show, in an effort to better our community. The emphasis will be on mental health, and the continuing series is being called “Hope in the Valley.” Some individuals will be sharing testimonies about overcoming their personal challenges.
The first artist in the series is Ryan Stevenson, who will perform at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8 at the Performing Arts Center of Wisconsin Rapids. Ryan’s music career began in 2003. His songs have appeared on the Billboard magazine charts six times, and his single, “Eye of the Storm,” hit No. 1 for 15 weeks straight. In 2013, Ryan caught the attention of TobyMac after co-writing the No. 1 and Grammy-nominated single, “Speak Life.” With numerous awards under his belt, Ryan has already distinguished himself as a rare talent whose unique perspective guides his honest lyrics and sonic sensibilities. Check him out at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2u4Qrj5txQ.
The recipient of this year’s proceeds will be Bridge to Healing Foundation, a newly-forming nonprofit, currently working toward 501(c)(3) status, built to remove financial and systemic barriers for everyone, regardless of circumstance. In partnership with Hafermann Counseling Collaborative, donations are turned directly into care, covering co-pays, deductibles, and cash costs so treatment is never interrupted by a bill. Through the Warrior Within Fund, that promise is extended specifically to veterans and first responders—those who give and continue to give—and too often suffer in silence. The mission is simple: Ensure that healing remains within reach for everyone, regardless of financial circumstance.
A person is struggling right now—a parent postponing therapy, a young adult battling substance use in silence, or a veteran or first responder carrying wounds that never truly clock out. When cost and broken systems place healing just out of reach, this fund becomes the door that opens. Healing should not be a privilege. It should be within reach for every person, every family, and every community—together, we can make that a reality. Every dollar bridges the gap between struggle and healing. If you are unable to attend the show on Aug. 8 but would like to donate, please contact The Arts Council.
Food trucks will be available in the parking lot prior to the concert, beginning around 5 p.m. Auction items will be open for bidding in the PAC lobby at 6 p.m.
Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for students and are available 24/7 at https://www.savorthearts.com, or by calling 715-424-2787 or stopping by 1040 8th Street South, Suite 101, Wisconsin Rapids, Monday through Thursday between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Thank you to HHAUSA and Premier Realty Group for their sponsorship and assistance in coordinating this event.