How Scotty McCreery Celebrated Turning 21

When Scotty McCreery turned 21 earlier this month, he didn't throw a blow-out party with large quantities of beer. Instead, he told friends, family and fans that he wanted them to make a donation to the 12.14 Foundation. The foundation's mission is to build and operate a landmark performing arts center in Newtown, Connecticut that will serve the dual purpose of memorializing and honoring those lost on December 14, 2012 during the Sandy Hook shooting and providing a venue that supports many forms of healing and positive change.

Scotty is the National Goodwill Ambassador for the 12.14 Foundation. He's held charity events to raise money for them since coming on board in February of this year. After a meeting with Dr. Michael Baroody, the founder and President, and other 12.14 leaders in December of 2013 he knew in his heart that he needed to be involved. His first step was that same month when he joined Newtown families at Edmund Town Hall for time of fellowship, some refreshments and even a few Christmas carols.

In a press release, the country singer said, "I’ve got such wonderful, generous fans, and they have been e-mailing my fan club asking what they could send me to celebrate my birthday. They’ve already given me far more than I could ever have imagined by letting me live out my dreams, so I would like to encourage the fans to donate to the 12.14 Foundation. Together we can support a great organization doing positive things in a town that is still recovering. Let’s help them reach their goal of building a state-of-the art performing arts and education center. That would be the best birthday gift I could receive."

Donations can still be made by visiting the organization’s website. For those mailing checks, donations can be sent to 12.14 Foundation, P.O. Box 90, Newtown, CT, 06470.

On Thursday, December 4, 2014, Scotty will host a benefit concert for 12.14 with special guest Danielle Bradbery at the Toyota Oakdale in Wallingford, Connecticut. By teaming up with Live Nation Concerts, he will also host a VIP pre-show party. Those attendees who purchase a VIP Pre Show Party Package will be able to meet him and hear him perform in an acoustic setting, while enjoying appetizers and beverages before the show. There are two ticket options available for purchase at oakdale.com and livenation.com. Tickets for just the concert itself are $55*, $45* and $35*. A limited number of the VIP Pre Show Party Package tickets – that also includes the concert – are available for $150*. (*additional fees apply)