Sword & Spirit Band: References

Despite the numerous problems within today’s foster care system, there are many individuals, families and organizations doing something to make life better for the youth in care.

Without their actions, life within the system would be worse than it could be.

There are so many negative stories that can be found with what is wrong with our system. However the positive side of the system is rarely brought forward in the headlines.

The words expressed on this website are not just words. They are a real part of the Sword & Spirit Band.

They are a true expression of their love, passion and commitment to today’s foster youth.

Since 1998 they have performed numerous benefits to raise awareness to the needs of foster & adoptive children; traveling between VT, NH, NJ, RI, NY and CT. The scope of their message has now expanded across the border into Canada to include children with Autism and benefits for Special Olympics.

These individuals have put action behind their words; they have dedicated their lives in so many ways to better the lives of youth in foster care and they have proven themselves to be “Heroes for Foster Youth”.

It is my honor and pleasure to choose The Sword & Spirit Band as our “Heroes for Foster Youth” for the month of October 2007.

They have definitely, by their actions earned it.

May your heart be moved as mine was, in reading the story of these wonderful people.

Dear Tony,
“It recently occurred to me that your band may never have been formally thanked for the wonderful performance you gave at our annual state foster care conference.

Your music and message is upbeat, positive and warm. I believe that your personal knowledge of fostering and knowing the type of children we care for gave you an empathy with our audience that was an added bonus.

As the President of the Vermont Foster and Adoptive Families Association I can whole-heartedly endorse The Sword and The Spirit band without any hesitation.”

“It is with great pleasure that I write a reference for The Sword and The Spirit.

The writing and performing of their original music shows true compassion and dedication of the difficult issues of children and families; the music shows hope for all.

The Sword and The Spirit give a command performance of enjoyment and promise for all who hear them. They have a great future!”

We were pleased to have The Sword and The Spirit perform at a Family Life Service's fundraising event held in August of 2000. The Audience consisted of foster families and children as well as members of the public attending the event. The group was professional in its presentation and their music was well received.

What I find to be most impressive about The Sword and The Spirit's work is that they move from an accurate portrayal of children's pain to a message of hope and renewal. The lyrics send a clear message that being loved and having a bright future is possible for anyone who chooses to put their trust in God. Their music asserts that God loves them and will never stop loving them.

Any of us who work with foster children know that there are all too few guaranteed positives that we can offer them. The music of The Sword and The Spirit holds out a double-edged gift for any taker: 'understanding and hope'.