A cluster of buildings that have served as an epicenter for cultural activities in Vicksburg, hosting thousands of programs and activities throughout the years are in need of repair.

The Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation is holding a talent contest to raise money for repairs and replacements to the heritage center’s roof.

“Instead of just doing a capital campaign and raising money to put towards the roof that we would try to do this in a fun, creative way,” executive director Stacey Massey said. “Something for the community.”

In the SCHC’s 20 years, more that 400 workshops, 200 performances, 80 exhibits and 100 lectures and book signings have been offered, Massey said. In addition to countless weddings, one movie was filmed in the auditorium.

Of the five historic buildings on site, one roof is in need of repairs and two need to be replaced.

“The gym needs a new roof and the convent needs a new roof,” Massey said. “ The auditorium is good because we just did that a couple years ago.”

The event is meant to showcase the talent here in Vicksburg and also as a means to draw the community together for a great cause.

The foundation has held traditional fundraisers in the past and will continue to do so in the future, but for now Massey is looking for talent to fill out the lineup.

Individuals can enter the contest for $10 and groups of three or more can enter for $30. Registration forms, rules and permission slips can be found at the SCHF at 1302 Adams Street and online at southernculture.org.

There will be different categories for people to compete in and would be a great way for a church choir or youth group to showcase their talent all while raising money for a good cause.

Three winners in each category of the initial preliminary competition will move on to the semi-finals. There will be a $100 cash prize for winners in each category of the semi-final competition. Those winners will advance to the grand finale on Saturday Sept. 12 where a single overall winner will receive $1,000 cash.

Massey said this is a time for the talented people of Vicksburg to get experience and exposure.

“Great exposure and experience to be on stage, for one, and then who couldn’t use $1,000 for school or whatever,” Massey said.

This is the first year the foundation has done a talent contest, and they hope it grows and becomes an annual event. One day they would like to award winners with scholarships or even advanced lessons.

We hope it is a success and continues to be a Vicksburg tradition like the caroling contest.