Award-winning folk singer Joe Jencks raising funds for Elgin PADS at Jan. 16 concert

Award-winning folk singer-songwriter Joe Jencks will perform a special benefit concert for PADS of Elgin from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, at Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren, 783 W. Highland Ave. in Elgin.

The free concert will feature Jencks’ signature blend of traditional folk and contemporary storytelling, with 100% of donations going directly to PADS of Elgin’s efforts to provide shelter, support, and hope to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Elgin area.

A 25-year veteran of the international folk circuit, Jencks is a Chicago-based, award-winning songwriter and celebrated vocalist who has performed at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, as well as major folk festivals across North America. He is co-founder of the harmony trio Brother Sun, whose albums have topped folk music charts, including their #1 hit “Lady of The Harbor,” penned by Jencks.

“Climb inside the songs of Joe Jencks, and you meet real people,” said Scott Alarik, author of “Revival” and host of “Folk Tales” on WUMB Boston. “His lilting melodies and warm, caramel tenor draw us closer to the stories he tells. Jencks finds the humanness that binds us to the people in his songs!”

The legendary Pete Seeger once praised Jencks, saying, “The spirit of Folk music is people working together. Joe is a fantastic singer who carries on the traditions.”

Merging conservatory training with his Irish roots and working-class upbringing, Jencks delivers engaged musical narratives filled with heart, soul, and social consciousness. His music explores themes of community, justice, and the human experience — making this benefit concert a natural fit for PADS’ mission.

Public Action to Deliver Shelter (PADS) of Elgin is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides safe shelter, support services, and advocacy to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Elgin, Hanover, Dundee, and Rutland townships.

In the 2024-25 fiscal year, PADS of Elgin:

• Provided 12,397 nights of shelter;

• Served 37,190 meals;

• Sheltered 137 guests, including 21 children;

• Housed 38 guests in permanent housing;

• Mobilized 537 volunteers who donated 1,130.75 hours.

PADS’ mission is to respectfully and compassionately empower persons and families who are in need of housing to become self-sustaining, by providing shelter, needed services, and professional guidance.

“Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren has always understood that care for our neighbors is something we do together,” said Katie Shaw Thompson, executive director of PADS. “I’m looking forward to joining good friends for good music and the opportunity to support good work.”

Admission is free. Donations will be gratefully accepted; 100% will benefit PADS of Elgin.

For more information about Joe Jencks, visit joejencks.com.

To learn more about PADS of Elgin, visit padsofelgin.org. For information about Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren, visit hacob.org.

All community members are welcome to attend this evening of heartfelt music and community impact. Donations to PADS of Elgin can be made at secure.qgiv.com/for/padsofelgin/event/folkconcert/