It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our friend, community leader and the UKC Chairman Tom Bales. Tom made a profound and lasting impact on the UKC and in-turn the lives of over 15,000 medically fragile children by serving as Chairman for six years. Tom’s dedication and selflessness in volunteering with his whole heart and soul demonstrates his compassion for others and dedication to his community. Tom’s energy, passion, and kindness were infectious, and many supporters of the UKC continued on as contributors and board members because of Tom. Bringing people together to help others was his daily mission. Not only did Tom contribute to the success of the UKC, but also he brought members of his own family into the organization including his beloved wife, Connie, and his dear sister, Lynda.

Dream Guitars, a leading retailer of fine guitars is teaming up with Luthiers For A Cause (LFAC), a philanthropic initiative run by luthiers to make a difference in the lives of medically fragile children.