Purpose
APDS Jazz for Peace (formerly Jazz in July) is a fundraising event to increase awareness and support of APDS (Africentric Personal Development Shop, Inc.). APDS is an innovative behavioral healthcare center specializing in the prevention, treatment, and recovery of substance abuse and domestic violence intervention education.  APDS was established in 1988, has 21 staff members (7 seasonal), and provides personal development services to over 2,000 people annually.  APDS is certified by the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drugs Addiction Services (ODADAS) to provide Intensive/Non-Intensive Substance Abuse Treatment and Prevention Services.

History
APDS Jazz for Peace is the creation of Ray Griffin, a past member of APDS Board of Trustees and retired NFL Player. The inaugural event, Jazz in July with Bobby Floyd, was held in 2010 and just over 100 guest attended.  The event was hosted by and at the home of Bonita and Archie Griffin, two-time Heisman trophy winner.   Bobby Floyd was our featured artist.  Bobby is a ‘Columbus Jazz Legend’ that has been featured with The Columbus Jazz Orchestra and has toured with Ray Charles, Jeff Tyzik, and Christian Howes.  Bobby has shared the stage with Dionne Warwick, Auturo Sandoval, David ‘Fathead’ Newman, Doc Severinson, and many other renown jazz artist.

Snap shot of operations
The concept of the annual event is for a local celebrity to host an outdoor/ backyard event with live jazz.  Invitations to attend are sent to invitees of APDS Board of Trustees, APDS CEO, and host(s).  Attendees are required to RSVP to attend.  There isn’t any cost allocated to the host(s) to present the event, provide food and/or refreshments.  These aforementioned expenses along with advertising and invitations are paid for and managed by the APDS Board of Trustees.  APDS requests from the host(s) permission to place their name(s) on the invitations and announcements, attend event, make a brief welcome statement and socialize with guests during the event.

For additional information about APDS Jazz for Peace, please contact Jerry Saunders, Sr. at (614) 253-4448 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .