Origin Acoustics, led by CEO Jeremy Burkhardt, has stepped up to the role of diamond-level sponsor of the Queen of Hearts benefit concert and event, to be held on opening night of CEDIA 2017. Origin, along with HTSA, SurgeX and GoVision, is the latest to join the lineup of industry companies sponsoring the event.

The Queen of Hearts benefit promises to “combine big fun, big surprises and industry support for the major cause of female victims of trafficking through GenerateHope,” according to the announcement. 

The benefit will feature the Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band from Chicago, Creedence Forever; a painting exhibition by Leon Speakers’ president Noah Kaplan; the honoring of influential women and other surprises. Proceeds go to GenerateHope, a San Diego 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a safe place for female survivors of sex-trafficking.

“Paul Starkey and our wives were watching the Rolling Stones at Desert Trip and the next day at lunch Paul mentioned how fun and worthwhile doing an event like this concert would be,” says Burkhardt. “For years we have used live music to share our passion with the industry. This time it's different as we’re giving back a little extra to an awesome cause. So, when you’re partying and having a great time, take a moment to pause and know we are also fighting supporting and sharing our vision of making the world a safer and better place.”

The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 7, at Humphries Concerts By The Bay, San Diego. Committed sponsors include SnapAV, Leon Speakers, Women in CT, One Firefly, Cat Toomey and CATalyzing Communications along with numerous industry donors. The event is organized by Vital Management.

“We are glad to be involved in this truly remarkable event with such a great group,” says Jon Robbins, executive director, HTSA. “This benefit falls perfectly in step with HTSA’s Helping Hands Initiative, which is all about reaching out to help those in need through positive, impactful ways. HTSA dealers will have a special seat at the table and concert for a night of celebration and, most importantly, giving back.”

Paul Starkey, the event’s originator and host, adds, “Jerri and I are grateful for the immense show of support that has helped make this vision a reality. We imagine a couple-hundred grand generated here for GenerateHope, and a much-needed safe house in San Diego County to aid victims of trafficking. It’s impressive to see our industry step up for this worthy cause. We hope the generous giving will continue.”

In just 45 days, over half the seats are already sold, and the group anticipates that the rest will be sold out shortly. The remaining Special Tickets are available until June 8, and General Tickets for all CEDIA attendees then go on sale. Those interested are encouraged to contact Paul Starkey.

Gates open on September 7 at 6:30 p.m., and the evening festivities conclude at 10 p.m.

For ticket questions, to nominate your own influential woman or women to be a Queen of Hearts, to ‘give back’ through donation, and for sponsorship or group opportunities, please contact Paul at paul@vitalmgt.com or call 760.295.8998. For more details and to watch as additions to the event unfold, visit queenofhearts.rocks.