THEY OFTEN CRY OUTREACH (TOCO)
MISSION STATEMENT
TOCO is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping improve the lives of underprivileged, at-risk and orphaned children around the world. Founder, songwriter, and poet, Taj Weekes, strives to use his voice to address world issues that affect these children and to use his influence to raise funds for TOCO's programs and projects.
TAJ WEEKES NAMED GOODWILL AMBASSADOR
The International Consortium of Caribbean Professionals (ICCP) has named Taj a Goodwill Ambassador in light of his positive contributions to the Caribbean community through TOCO and through his uplifting socially conscious music. Taj will utilize his talents to bring awareness to issues that affect the Caribbean such as HIV/AIDS, global warming, and poverty.
PROJECTS
SOCCER PROGRAMS
Soccer is the number one sport in the world. The soccer stars of today began as young boys, many from underprivileged backgrounds around the world, and were fortunate enough to have a ball themselves or that of a neighborhood friend. It is our belief that one soccer ball can change a child’s self-discipline, self-esteem and confidence. Building these traits in a child will give them the ability to move through society with the knowledge that they can live beyond their circumstances. TOCO delivers soccer balls, equipment, cleats and uniforms to underprivileged, at-risk and orphaned children. TOCO also creates soccer programs that are designed to teach these children basic soccer skills and compete in tournaments within their neighborhoods.
TOCO - ICCP PROJECT
As a Goodwill Ambassador, Taj and the ICCP will be working with the World Association of Former United Nations Interns & Fellows (WAFUNIF), a division of the United Nations, to implement programs such as soccer clinics, HIV/AIDS awareness forums and agricultural initiatives through art, music and cultural events.
The first project of the collaboration is a soccer program which will launch in St. Lucia, Taj's country of origin, delivering soccer balls, equipment, cleats and uniforms to underprivileged, at-risk and orphaned children throughout the Caribbean. The initial goal is to bring 500 soccer balls to St. Lucia in the spring. TOCO will be collecting soccer balls, t-shirts, sneakers, cleats and more. If you would like to contribute to this cause, please email info@theyoftencryoutreach.org.
HURRICANE KATRINA ALBUM
In 2005, after the events in New Orleans, Taj wrote several songs addressed specifically to the people affected by the tragedy. The album Waterlogged Soul Kitchen, to be released in 2008, features songs of hope, strength and triumph meant to encourage those in New Orleans to press forward. In addition, proceeds of the album will be distributed to programs benefitting children in New Orleans. Download Louisiana
SONG FOR DARFUR
The crisis in Darfur has been at the forefront of every humanitarian effort. Taj has written Orphans Cry to address the plight of those affected, bringing special attention to the children. TOCO has partnered with other humanitarian organizations and is dedicated to raising awareness across the globe of this underexposed crisis by participating in fundraising events and during the group's own performances across the country.
SONGS & ALBUMS
ORPHANS CRY
The theme song for TOCO and featured on Taj's sophomore album entitled, DEIDEM.
WATERLOGGED SOUL KITCHEN
An album for victims of Hurricane Katrina, to be released in 2008.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
DONATE
- You can give directly to the organization by contacting info@theyoftencryoutreach.org.
- You can donate soccer balls, equipment, cleats, t-shirts, socks and shorts. Be a part of bringing 500 soccer balls to St. Lucia this spring!
- You can contact organizations you are affiliated with for in-kind donations and spearhead your own TOCO fundraiser!
- You can purchase the DEIDEM promo. A percentage of the proceeds will benefit TOCO.
CIRCULATE THE SONG
You can send the song Orphans Cry (MP3 format) to your network of family and friends to raise awareness of the crisis in Darfur.
SPREAD THE WORD
Tell your friends and family about upcoming performances and fundraising events. Inspire your children who play soccer to create their own TOCO fundraising projects for children in need!
CONTACT INFORMATION
Email: info@theyoftencryoutreach.org