"WESTSTOCK" is the brainchild of father and son Glenn and Anthony Jenkins. Its inception was in June of 2013. It was simply born out of love and deep consideration for the many dedicated, talented, and brilliant musicians whose performances they had seen so often at open mics, shows, events, cabarets, etc. They thought that it was a shame so many people don't realize just how much talent was unseen or heard. These musicians give so much with their music, they wanted to give something back to them, and give them a chance to share their talent with those who might otherwise never get the chance to experience them. This inspired them to bring them all together and to showcast this vast eclectic array of talent. The concept was that there would be music, prizes, bookbag raffles, fun, food, friends and family, young and old, covering all genres of music,and love of community and extended community to commune together for peace and unity, and it would all be free of charge. They wanted people to know that there was a place that they could get something for nothing, and that they REALLY cared. Initially food was prepared to feed the musicians, but soon, the spectators, one after another, came up and asked if they could have a plate. We were able to feed everyone and we strive to continue that tradition. There were so many performers, we didn't have enough time for everyone, so in the following years we extended the show so we could afford as many acts as possible. In 2014, they joined forces with host Nathanial Weigert and called around to see who was interested in showcasing their talent and there was no shortage of performers willing to participate. As well as hosting the show he is responsible for getting out the invitations to perform, the responses, and the itinerary and times. He is an outstanding host, as well as a loyal and faithful friend, and we are so blessed to have him as part of our team. WESTSTOCK had set out to occur annually in October.The first two events were held in October but it was SO cold that we changed it to occur annually in September. With a handful of volunteers, performers and only approximately 200 spectators... by 2019, Weststock was hosting over 30 performers and standby performers and approximately 700-800 spectators visiting the festival. When we started there were initially 4 committee members, and together we pulled it off. WESTSTOCK committee grew and is currently comprised of current & former residents of the 5800 Block of Pine Street, some that were raised there & have returned to support the purpose on a voluntary basis, and community volunteers. This year, we expect an exciting Welcome Back Festival. We couldn't have done this then or now without the cooperation of the residents of the 5800 block of Pine Street, and we graciously extend our heartfelt thanks. I'm sure you know, it takes the effort of a lot of people working together to make this happen. What you may not know is that we made it happen without any budget or initial funding. Without an operating budget we count on the support from our neighbors, the community, local business owners, the corporate community, city delegates, friends, family, and our fundraising efforts to offset the cost of operations for the music festival. This year is the 8th Annual WESTSTOCK (less 2yrs of Covid-19 restrictions) in the City of Philadelphia. Each year the event grew bigger than the last with the operating expenses to go with it.Donations or contribution have come in many different forms: Monetary donation, food & beverages, services rendered, supplies, apparatus or fundraising Ideas. The purpose of the event is tri-fold.To allow people in our communities and surrounding communities to see the value of what we as neighbors can offer one another and that we, and our families all share the desire to promote and help our y outh to recognize the talent and creativity within themselves and others around them, and in doing so we strengthen our community via the love of music and live entertainment and it doesn't have to cost a fortune to see it locally. Since inception, we have developed great relationships with local businesses, other non-profit organizations, city delegates, as well as strengthened the unity in our community. All are bonuses supporting the purpose of the WESTSTOCK Music Festival. An annual charitable event for the community and by the community.