Loud guitars, powerful vocals and pounding drums will fill the Rock 103 Stage on Saturday, Aug. 1, but the biggest impact of the evening won't be measured in decibels. Every ticket sold for Mosh Out Cancer 2 will help local families battling cancer through the Karen Chandler Trust. For KCT Treasurer Michael Smith, the event is about much more than music. 

"Mosh Out Cancer 2 presented by The Assurance Group is our way of bringing together two things that are incredibly important to us: our local music scene and our mission to help cancer patients," Smith said. "It's proof that no matter what kind of music you love, communities come together when someone needs help."

That spirit has guided the KCT for more than two decades. The organization was created in memory of Karen Chandler, a devoted mother, talented musician and beloved member of Fayetteville's music community. During her battle with breast cancer, benefit concerts helped support her family. After her passing, those remaining funds and the generosity of the community became the foundation of the trust. 

"What began as people coming together to support one family has grown into more than two decades of serving our community," Smith said.

Today, the trust helps local cancer patients with the financial burdens that often accompany treatment. 

"Cancer doesn't just create medical challenges; it often creates financial ones as well," Smith said. "We provide assistance with rent, mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, transportation and other essential expenses so families can focus on healing instead of worrying about how they're going to pay the bills." 

Every dollar raised remains in the local community, helping families meet basic needs while they focus on recovery.

This year's concert continues that mission while showcasing some of North Carolina's top rock and metal bands. Headliner Fear State will be joined by Fayetteville's Legacy Kills, reuniting after nearly a decade. Greensboro's Parallel Lives will take to the stage, and Fire for Scarecrow will perform its farewell show. 

"One of the things I'm most excited about this year is the incredible lineup we've assembled," Smith said. "Every band on the bill has generously provided their time and talent because they believe in our mission." 

He added, "What makes this lineup truly special isn't just the talent, it's the generosity behind it. Every one of these musicians has chosen to use their music to make a difference in the lives of local families battling cancer."

Beyond the live music, attendees can enjoy raffles, merchandise, food and opportunities to learn more about the KCT. Smith says the event's success depends on the people behind the scenes as much as those on stage. 

"Mosh Out Cancer isn't just an event that the KCT puts on," he said. "It's something our entire community comes together to create." 

He credits local musicians, volunteers, sponsors and businesses for making the event possible and helping the organization continue serving Cumberland County families.

More than anything, Smith hopes people leave with a deeper appreciation for what can happen when a community rallies around a common cause. 

"We want people to have an amazing time and enjoy incredible live music, but we also hope they leave with a greater appreciation for the power of community," he said. "Even something as simple as buying a concert ticket can have a meaningful impact on someone's life."

Mosh Out Cancer 2 presented by The Assurance Group, will be held Saturday, Aug. 1, at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 670, 3928 Doc Bennett Road in Fayetteville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door and are available at kctrustshop.com. 

"Every dollar raised stays right here in our community," Smith said. "When people support our events or make a donation, they're helping their neighbors, coworkers, friends and fellow community members."