On the University of Illinois campus, it’s easy to find ways to lend a helping hand. Both student and local organizations are constantly providing us with service opportunities. This weekend, service takes on a different shape. One way to lend a hand to the Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County is by attending a benefit concert at the Canopy Club in Urbana.

The Canopy Club is a venue where local musicians typically perform for their peers. This time, though, the musicians are performing to help fund a cause.

This Saturday, Oct. 3, the Canopy Club will be hosting a benefit show called Rockin’ for Rooftops. Snowsera, Stan McConnell, and the Curses will all be performing to help raise money for the Women Build Homes program, which is part of Champaign County’s Habitat for Humanity.

Samantha Redes, one of the active members of the committee, came up with the idea for the benefit concert.

“It’s a great way to pull in a different crowd of people and introduce them to Habitat,” said Gina Stierwalt, Development Director at Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County, in an e-mail interview. “It’s a really fun way to raise some money.”

Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County is an organization founded on Christian principles, but it welcomes those from any faith. Anyone willing to lend a hand in improving the lives of local families in need of decent shelter is encouraged to help.

Snowsera is eager for its chance to help give back to the community.

“Playing a benefit show is a good thing,” said Nate Christenson, a 2008 graduate of the College of Media. “Too many times shows are put on that don’t have much meaning. We jump at the chance to play shows with a deeper rooted cause.”

Internationally, Habitat for Humanity has built over 300,000 homes since its formation in 1976. Locally, Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County built its 50th home in 2008.

The proceeds from the concert will all go directly to a current Habitat for Humanity build, located at 1521 W. Healey St. in Champaign. The Women Build Homes Committee is partnering with Carle Clinic Association to complete this house. The committee hopes to raise more than $1,000 through cover charges and raffle ticket sales.

Tickets are being sold for $5 in advance and $7 at the door. Raffle tickets will also be available for purchase inside.

The benefit concert is earlier than most weekend concerts, with bands performing from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. The Canopy Club will be opening its doors at 6 p.m. and guests must be 18 years old in order to attend.

“Events like these are important,” Stierwalt said. “Not only because of the funds that are raised but also because of the awareness it brings to our local Habitat affiliate as well as the work that the Women Build Homes committee is doing.”