Austin Music Scene: Venues Raise Funds for Aging Artists

Austin music venues are launching a monthlong fundraising effort to support aging local musicians. The campaign, called HOMEcoming, partners with twenty venues across the city to generate funds for Housing Opportunities for Musicians and Entertainers.

Hanna Cofer, the executive director of HOME, describes the initiative as a shift away from traditional galas. Instead of a single event, the organization promotes its partner venues for the entire month of November. Cofer states that attendees can support the cause by visiting these clubs, purchasing special cocktails, and attending shows. The higher the venue attendance, the more money HOME receives.

The concept originated with Joe Ables, owner of Saxon Pub. Last year, Ables pledged to donate one dollar to HOME for every ticket sold at his club during the month. He set a condition that other clubs must also commit to donations. Cofer notes that the venues agreed to participate, creating a collaborative model that varies by location. Some venues, like Donn's Depot, offer a signature cocktail for the month, while larger venues like the Moody Center provide direct sponsorships.

HOME was founded fourteen years ago when a group of musicians helped Lavelle White, an 84-year-old blues singer, secure stable housing. The group raised funds for her rent and apartment furnishings. Afterward, members realized other aging musicians needed similar assistance. The organization has since expanded its services beyond housing to include advocacy and partnerships with healthcare providers. Cofer describes the current approach as an "inch-wide, mile-deep model" that aims to care for clients holistically.

Last year, the first HOMEcoming campaign raised approximately $75,000. Cofer called that total a strong result for the inaugural year. She emphasized that the campaign provided valuable exposure for both the nonprofit and the local music scene. Cofer believes that supporting these musicians is part of Austin's cultural identity, encouraging residents to be mindful of the people behind the city's music heritage.

The HOMEcoming campaign runs for the entirety of November. Cofer has designated each participating venue as a homecoming mum, tying the fundraiser to the traditional local spirit of the season.