Maple Ridge vocalist raises $1,210 for charity supporting children with cleft conditions

Thomas Haney Secondary student and classical vocalist Chelsea (Yunxi) Jiang held a charity vocal recital, “A Voice for Smiles,” at Golden Ears United Church, raising $1,210 for Operation Smile Canada. The non-profit supports children born with cleft lip and palate in low- and middle-income communities by delivering care, strengthening local health-care systems and bringing hope to communities worldwide.

Jiang organized the recital around two of her most important goals: using music to help others and making classical music welcoming and accessible to the community. Her connection with Operation Smile began when she was eight and performed in support of the organization alongside her teacher. Nine years later, she organized and performed her own charity recital.

“Music has given me so much, and I wanted to use it to give something back,” Jiang said. “I’m very grateful to everyone who came, performed, volunteered and donated. Knowing that the evening can help five children makes it especially meaningful.”

Admission was free, and voluntary donations were welcomed in support of the charity. More information about Operation Smile Canada is available at https://operationsmile.ca/.