There was dancing in the aisles at the 29th annual PACER Center benefit.
When Grammy-award-winner Sheryl Crow sang "Soak Up the Sun," the audience rushed toward the stage at the Minneapolis Convention Center. It was a fitting moment, given that much of what PACER does is all about standing up and speaking out.
Since 1977, the nonprofit has been focused on improving the lives of children with disabilities and their families. And in 2006, PACER launched the National Bullying Prevention Center, which now includes websites specifically for kids and teenagers.
According to executive director Paula Goldberg, the organization helps children -- with and without disabilities -- deal with harassment. "All kids get bullied," she said. "It's a huge societal issue."
Maggie Broyles, age 9, who was at the event, said she was thrilled to meet Sheryl Crow. And it was clear the Golden Valley girl also got the message about bullying. "Bullying isn't good," said the Meadowbrook Elementary School student. "It's not nice."
That's a chorus worth singing along to.
Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177
