Name: IMPACT! Remembering Dr. Willis C. Patterson
Start: 2026-11-01
End: 2026-11-01

The [Ann Arbor Sports Commission](https://www.annarbor.org/sports-commission/ "Ann Arbor Sports Commission") works diligently to improve the quality of life through sports for all of Washtenaw County. The [Ann Arbor area](https://www.annarbor.org/ "Ann Arbor area") attracts both sports enthusiasts and participants alike. Thanks to its [easy accessibility](https://www.annarbor.org/plan/getting-here-getting-around/ "easy accessibility"), [wide range of facilities](https://www.annarbor.org/sports-commission/facilities-venues/ "wide range of facilities") available and variety of [dining](https://www.annarbor.org/foodanddrink/ "dining") & [entertainment](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/ "entertainment") options, the Ann Arbor area is a favorite of sporting event organizations. The area has a rich sporting culture seeding in the history of two Division 1 athletic programs ([University of Michigan](https://www.annarbor.org/university-of-michigan/ "University of Michigan") and Eastern Michigan University) and several other small institutions. The Ann Arbor Sports was formed to attract amateur sporting events to the Ann Arbor region by assisting organizers every step of the way.

Ann Arbor is a dynamic mix of energy and charm—a bustling university town, a [foodie’s paradise](https://www.annarbor.org/foodanddrink/ "foodie's paradise"), and a cutting-edge tech hub, all wrapped in a [walkable downtown](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/downtown/ "walkable downtown") bursting with [world-class arts and culture](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/arts-culture/ "world-class arts and culture"). Located in Michigan’s southeast Lower Peninsula, Ann Arbor is the heartbeat of a vibrant network of [communities across Washtenaw County](https://www.annarbor.org/surrounding-destinations/ "communities across Washtenaw County"). With its creative spirit, diverse flavors, and unique neighborhoods, Ann Arbor shines as a exciting oasis.

Ann Arbor Sports Commission

The Willis C. Patterson Our Own Thing Chorale is excited to invite you to our upcoming gala memorial concert and reception celebrating the profound life, artistry, and enduring legacy of Dr. Willis C. Patterson on Sunday, November 1, 2026 at 4:00 PM at First Unitarian Universalist Congregation (4001 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. Ann Arbor, 48103.)  
  
Concert Highlights and Information  
The program will feature a rich tapestry of tributes and music, reflective of Dr. Patterson's life's work. Performers include the Our Own Thing Chorale and professional artists who were former students of Patterson, as well as products of both the Chorale and Instructional Program who will be returning to Ann Arbor for this special fundraiser.   
  
The Willis C. Patterson Our Own Thing Chorale is passionate about educating the community in traditional and contemporary African American choral music with an emphasis on spirituals and serving youth who would otherwise be unable to afford to study music. The Instructional Program provides free lessons and instruments to area youth.   
  
Concert proceeds and tax-deductible donations support the 501(c)(3) educational mission of the Our Own Thing Instructional Program, ensuring that free musical education for local youth continues to thrive.

IMPACT! Remembering Dr. Willis C. Patterson

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