Love Your Neighbor: A Concert Series Born from Community 

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Sometimes, the most meaningful things begin in the hardest moments. 

For George Carizey, that’s exactly how the Love Your Neighbor concerts began, when executive orders forced program changes, furloughs and staff cuts in early 2025.  

“We were losing a lot of staff — people who meant a lot to us,” said George, the outreach and development director for World Relief Quad Cities. “Before we said goodbye, we just wanted to come together and celebrate what we had.” 

That desire to create connection is personal for George. He first came to the Quad Cities as an immigrant from Vietnam, welcomed by a local church that helped his family begin again in an unfamiliar place. 

That first Love Your Neighbor concert came together quickly in time for Valentine’s Day.  

“We thought, let’s just sing songs, do some worship and have some entertainment,” he said. “People can come, dance and bring their culture into the celebration.” 

Out came the instruments. The voices. The dance moves.

As word spread, more people wanted to be part of it. 

What began as a shared celebration to lift spirits grew quickly. The first concert raised $5,000. Soon after, Augustana College hosted a concert of their own, followed by a local church — bringing the total raised to more than $8,000. 

This year, the Love Your Neighbor concert series builds on that momentum — now taking place in the spring and summer. 

Set for May 14, the event will again bring the community together for an open, welcoming celebration where everyone has a place. 

From 5 to 8 p.m. at The Gathering in Moline, the evening will feature live music and performances from staff and volunteers. Spoken-word poetry from local youth and a variety of artistic performances reflecting the cultures and stories within the community will round out the night.

Last year, former World Relief Quad Cities staff member Beatrice Tchikala performed a song that celebrated hope, unity and culture.

“This year I am planning to sing again at the Love Your Neighbor Concert. I agreed to participate because performing brings me joy and gives me an opportunity to connect with people in a meaningful way through music,” she said.

“Being part of this concert means a lot to me because it brings people together to celebrate the important work our office does in supporting refugees and other immigrant communities. Seeing the community come together with love, encouragement, and support is truly inspiring, and it reminds me of the power of unity and compassion.

In the weeks leading to the event, local artists, staff and volunteers also are gathering for painting nights — creating original pieces that will be raffled off during the concert. Some of those works will even find a home beyond the event, with community partners planning to display them in a local senior living center. 

In keeping with its original intent, there is no entrance fee — just an open invitation to come, participate and give as you’re able. 

Everyone welcome

The heart of the event remains the same: a space where people can come as they are, celebrate together and take part in something bigger than themselves. 

For George, it all comes back to a simple truth: “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14) 

In the Quad Cities, that love is becoming something you can see — and be part of. 

Let us know you plan to attend our Love Your Neighbor concert on May 14.