The Press Room.

Your central hub for news, media coverage, and updates.

Read our latest press release, check out prominent media coverage, and dive into our press release archive. We’re empowering CoolKids with access to life-changing mobility care and celebrating the success of our Rocktoberfest events in NYC and Chicago. If you’re interested in writing about ALTSO, please contact us with any questions.

Our latest press release.

 

October 23, 2025

A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO)’s Rocktoberfest-CHI to be Held on Thursday, October 23

2025 Rocktoberfest Event Series Raises Goal to $1.25 Million After Record Setting Year

A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) will unite the Chicago financial community on October 23 at their 14th Anniversary Rocktoberfest-CHI for a night of outstanding music to help fund critical mobility care. This year’s event is made possible by the generous support of 18 industry leaders in Chicago including Alpine Capital Advisors, ADM Investor Services, OCC, Belvedere Trading, CME Group, Andersen Group Inc, and IMC. Buy a ticket to Rock for Good with them here. Special thanks to ADM Investor Services.

INCREDIBLE MUSIC. Headlined by Chicago’s leading professionals, each band has spent the year raising vital funds to give CoolKids in emerging countries the gift of mobility through prosthetic limbs, orthotic braces, and properly fitted wheelchairs.

Main Stage: ALTSO All Stars, August Son, Bad Dads, Blue Sky Highway, Hive of Scum and Villainy, The Operators

Acoustic Stage: Bobby Z & Duncan Lee, Hive of Scum and Villainy, The Operators, The Mixaphors, Wild Oats

GLOW-ING IMPACT. Generously sponsored by OCC.

After a record-setting Rocktoberfest-NYC, ALTSO is raising their 2025 fundraising goal to $1.25 million— for every child who deserves the freedom to move, play, and receive the critical, life-changing care that being a CoolKid means.

To help ALTSO reach its fundraising goal guests can donate onsite to provide a mobility treatment and receive a GLOW necklace to light up the night. If you are not able to attend Thursday’s event, you can make a donation here.

PHOTO MOMENTS. Generously sponsored by Belvedere Trading. 

Guests can stop at the event’s photo booth to capture the joy of the evening, creating lasting mementos that reflect both the celebration and their support for ALTSO’s mission.

Christine Robbins, Executive Assistant to C-Suite at Belvedere Trading said, "We are thrilled to be part of ALTSO Rocktoberfest this year! It’s inspiring to see the finance and trading communities come together to make a real difference — helping children gain mobility and independence through music and generosity."

Additional Rocktoberfest-CHI sponsors include: ARB; Balyasny Asset Management; Barchart; Cboe; Chatham Asset Management, LLC; DV Trading; Gate 39; KRM22; Macquarie Futures USA; Prime Trading; RCM Alternatives; and Wedbush.

 

Our valued media partners.

Meet the media outlets supporting this year’s Rocktoberfest events.

 
 

Historic press coverage.

Click on a logo to read about ALTSO featured in the news.

 

Press release archive.

Read through our press releases from the past two years. Questions? Please contact us!

 

October 15, 2025

ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest Lineup: Music and Finance Unite to Drive Impact

Rocktoberfest fuels ALTSO’s Program Growth and 25,000 CoolKids served

Join A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) and the New York financial community on October 16 at their 22nd Anniversary Rocktoberfest-NYC for a night of outstanding music to help fund critical mobility care. This year’s event is made possible by the generous support of more than 35 industry leaders in New York including Alpine Capital AdvisorsElement CapitalLaw Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, Sprott, Jacobs Asset Management, BTIGHudson Bay Capital, and Morgan Stanley.

Here’s a glimpse of how guests will ‘Rock for Good’ this Thursday. Buy a ticket to join them here. Special thanks to Sprott, Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor.

INCREDIBLE MUSIC. Headlined by NYC industry leaders, each band will celebrate ALTSO’s mission, while demonstrating that great entertainment also drives meaningful change.

Main Stage: Achieves Most, Big Beautiful Bill, Hive of Scum and Villainy, JAM Partners, Midnight Raiders

Acoustic Stage: Acoustic Karma, Bongo Billy & Friends, Matthew Scharpf, The Singing CPA, To The Bridge, Voices4Values

INTERACTIVE IMPACT. Generously sponsored by Element Capital, Exclusive Impact Sponsor.

ALTSO’s Interactive Impact Installation invites guests to meet three CoolKids, each of whom has received one of ALTSO’s key pillars of mobility care—a prosthetic limb, an orthotic brace, or an appropriately fitted wheelchair. With engaging stories and trivia, the experience highlights the urgent global need for mobility care and the profound impact of investing in a child’s future.

"At Element Capital, we're proud to make a meaningful impact both locally and globally. Our support of ALTSO reflects this commitment and helps create opportunities for children living with limb disabilities to thrive.” said Rich Walz, General Counsel of Element Capital.

To help ALTSO reach its 2025 Rocktoberfest fundraising goal of $1.2 MM, guests can donate onsite to provide a mobility treatment and receive a GLOW necklace to light up the night. If you are not able to attend Thursday’s event, you can make a donation here to help ALTSO reach its goal.

PHOTO MOMENTS. Generously sponsored by the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor.

Guests can step into the spotlight, strike a pose with friends, and take home keepsake photos that celebrate both the evening and their support for ALTSO’s mission at two photo booths.

Attorney Michael S. Lamonsoff, Founder and CEO of the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff said, “Every day I come to work, I have the privilege of fighting for New Yorkers as they rebuild their lives after an accident. I’ve seen clients walk into my office on crutches and walk out on their own with justice served. Partnering with ALTSO allows us to take that same drive for recovery and independence to a global level- helping children regain mobility and the confidence to build their futures. I’m honored to stand with an organization fighting for every child’s right to move and the chance to live life to the fullest.” 

A TASTE OF VIP. Exclusive for the event’s sponsors, musicians, and top advocates.

VIP ticket holders will enjoy special tastings from the event’s beverage sponsors including Hiatus Tequila, Athletic Brewing, Harmony Gin, Lantern Beverages, and Just Rum - plus special giveaways generously provided by PATH, Bjorn Qorn, and Donut Pub.

Three Chord Bourbon, T Edwards Wines, Hampton Water Rose, Fiol Prosecco, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are also proud to support as beverage sponsors.

Additional Rocktoberfest-NYC sponsors include: 400 Capital Management LLC (“400CM”), Baird, Bank of America, Barclays, Berenberg Capital Markets, Bloomberg, Cantor, Cboe, CIBC, Citi, FINTOP Capital, GlobeTax, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, Jefferies LLC, JM Bullion, KBW, Liquidnet, Nomura, Piper Sandler, Societe Generale, Stifel, SUSQUEHANNA, Syntax Data, TD Securities, Virtu Financial, Wedbush, Wells Fargo, and Quanteam North America.

 

SEPT 9, 2025

ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest Lineup: Music and Finance Unite to Drive Impact

Rocktoberfest fuels ALTSO’s Program Growth and 25,000 CoolKids served

This year, more children in some of the world’s most underserved communities will gain independent mobility—thanks to the generosity of A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO)’s Rocktoberfest sponsors.

Rocktoberfest, celebrated as the financial service industry’s coolest tradition, returns to New York City and Chicago this October to unite professionals to ‘Rock For Good.’ The annual concert series combines live music with networking to fund life-changing care for children living with disabilities in emerging countries.

“Sprott is proud to support ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest,” said Whitney George, Chief Executive Officer of Sprott Inc., Rocktoberfest-NYC’s Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor. “Through our support, we’re helping make mobility possible for children around the world—unlocking independence, confidence, and opportunity.”

Thanks to last year’s record-breaking success and the generosity of its sponsors, ALTSO is expanding to South America and broadening its reach in Eastern Europe. New partnerships with local clinics in Argentina, Colombia, and Georgia will deliver appropriately fitted wheelchairs—one of the hardest to source items in emerging countries.

Building on this momentum, this year’s Rocktoberfest series aims to raise $1.2 MM to support ALTSO’s 13 worldwide programs and meet the urgent need for mobility care caused by poverty, congenital disabilities, and traumatic injuries. Since 2003, ALTSO has provided more than 25,000 children with prosthetic limbs, appropriately fitted wheelchairs, and orthotic braces, providing access to transformative mobility and restoring dignity and hope.

ADM Investor Services has supported ALTSO since 2016,” said Kurt Johnson, VP, Business Development at ADM Investor Services, Rocktoberfest-CHI’s Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor. “We are honored to continue our support and look forward to rocking together this October.”

Rocktoberfest tickets are on sale now. Meet the bands headlining the events below to learn about their support for ALTSO’s mission.

ALTSO’s 22nd Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC | October 16 at The Hard Rock Cafe.

Main Stage: Achieves Most, Big Beautiful Bill (fka Billswitch Engage), Hive of Scum and Villainy, Midnight Raiders, Private Key

Acoustic Stage: Acoustic Karma, Bongo Billy & Friends, To The Bridge, Voices4Values

ALTSO’s 14 Annual Rocktoberfest-CHI | October 23 at The House of Blues.

Main Stage: ALTSO All Stars, August Son, Bad Dads, Blue Sky Highway, Hive of Scum and Villainy, The Operators

Acoustic Stage: The Operators, Wild Oats

Proceeds from Rocktoberfest will fund high-quality mobility care, providing the foundation needed to break the poverty cycle: access to education, future employment, and independence.

Sponsors.

Special thanks to Rocktoberfest Legacy Sponsors: ADM Investor Services (Rocktoberfest CHI Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor); Barchart; Belvedere Trading (Rocktoberfest CHI Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor); Cboe; GlobeTax; JAM PartnersOCC (Rocktoberfest CHI Exclusive GLOW Sponsor); Quanteam North America; Wedbush.

Additional sponsors include: Element Capital (Rocktoberfest NYC Exclusive Impact Sponsor); Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, PLLC (Rocktoberfest NYC Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor); Sprott (Rocktoberfest NYC Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor); Alpine Capital Advisors; BTIG; Hudson Bay Capital; IMC; 400 Capital Management LLC (“400CM”); ARB; Baird; Balyasny Asset Management; Bank of America; Berenberg Capital Markets; CIBC; FINTOP Capital; JM Bullion, Inc.; KBW; KRM22; Liquidnet; Macquarie; Piper Sandler; Prime Trading; RCM; Stifel; Virtu Financial.

For information on sponsoring, email Gabriella at gevrard@altso.org or visit www.altso.org/rocktoberfest.

Pre-Jam Session.

In anticipation of October's events, ALTSO’s annual Pre-Jam Session, exclusively featuring Rocktoberfest bands, will return to The Bitter End on September 17th. A $40 cash donation at the door benefits ALTSO’s CoolKids. 

 

JUNE 6, 2025

ALTSO Expands Global Impact Supporting Children with New Program in South America

A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) is expanding its global impact to Argentina, partnering with fundacion uno x uno, a local organization in greater Buenos Aires, to address one of the region’s urgent needs and most difficult to source items: access to appropriately fitted wheelchairs for children.

While ~75 million people globally need a wheelchair, 85-90% do not have access to one. For those who spend a minimum of 10-12 hours per day in their chair, an appropriately fitting wheelchair is essential to avoiding secondary health complications, such as muscular rigidity and pressure sores, and the pain and discomfort that is caused by ill-fitted chairs.

To support this program—and the 11 others that ALTSO currently operates in 10 countries—Rocktoberfest, ALTSO’s annual fundraising series that unites the financial services community for concerts headlined by industry leaders, will return to New York City on October 16 at the Hard Rock Cafe and Chicago on October 23 at the House of Blues. Super Early Bird tickets are now on sale. Ticket prices will increase on July 1.

Special thanks to ADM Investor Services, Rocktoberfest CHI’s Exclusive Guest Experience sponsor.

Following two consecutive years of record-breaking fundraising and impact, this year’s Rocktoberfest series aims to raise $1.2 MM to help provide children with high-quality prosthetic limbs, appropriately fitted wheelchairs, and orthotic braces. Mobility provides the foundation needed to break the poverty cycle - access to education, future employment, and independence.

“We’re deeply thankful to the Rocktoberfest community for more than 22 years of loyal support. Your continued generosity not only fuels our global reach, but also inspires others to give back,” said Gabriella Mueller-Evrard, Executive Director of ALTSO. “When you support Rocktoberfest, you’re investing in a future where every child has access to the mobility care they deserve, and joining the movement to empower our next generation.”

Special thanks to Rocktoberfest Legacy Sponsors, including ADM Investor Services, OCC (Exclusive GLOW sponsor), JAM Partners, Barchart, and GlobeTax. 

Additional Rocktoberfest sponsors include: Balyasny Asset Management, 400 Capital Management LLC (“400CM”), KRM22, Prime Trading, and more.

For information on sponsoring or performing, email Gabriella at gevrard@altso.org or visit www.altso.org/rocktoberfest.

 

APRIL 16, 2025

A Leg To Stand On Drives Expanded Impact with 2025 Event Lineup

Leading mobility charity A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) is raising the age of children and adolescents served from 21 to 25. This increase will ensure their CoolKids continue receiving the essential mobility care they need into young adulthood, preventing setbacks that could lead to substandard treatment, health complications, and long-term challenges, and providing them with the best possible chance of breaking the poverty cycle. To celebrate this milestone, ALTSO has launched a new impact page—Meet our CoolKids—highlighting the profound impact of ongoing access to mobility care.

To further this mission, ALTSO has a calendar packed with dynamic fundraising events. From high-energy movement challenges to intimate music performances and large rock and roll concerts, each event offers companies and professionals a powerful way to unite their teams and boost morale while creating life-changing opportunities.

Event proceeds will support ALTSO’s mission of providing free prosthetic limbs, orthotic braces, and appropriately fitted wheelchairs to children and young adults living in emerging countries where the need for mobility care - due to traffic accidents, congenital disabilities, and poverty - is tremendous, yet underserved.

April 23 | Rock for ALTSO | The Cutting Room, NYC | 6 PM ET

Headlined by Big Dog Party with music by Achieves Most and The DebtBeats. Tickets are $60 online; $75 at the door. Select VIP seating is available for purchase. Sponsored by Fraunces Tavern, Blank Rome, CR3 Partners, Hilco Real Estate, SC&H, and Venable. Learn more.

“We are proud to support ALTSO’s mission to provide mobility care to children,” said Eddie Travers and Dervila Bowler, owners at Fraunces Tavern. “We’re honored to be part of an initiative that transforms lives and opens doors to new possibilities.”

May 5 - 8 | Move for ALTSO Movement Competition | Global

Dedicate five days of movement to help CoolKids gain the same freedom. Participants will run/bike/walk/move, tracking their mileage and raising funds to help enroll more CoolKids for care, while competing for prizes. Corporate team pricing is available. Prizes provided by Barry’s, BLK & Bold, Court 16, PATH, Pvolve, and Vuori. Learn more.

May 8 | Move for ALTSO Pickleball Tournament | Court 16, NYC | 6 PM ET

Compete in a round robin Pickleball Tournament. Sign up as a team ($750) or free agent ($125) and get ready to move on the court to change lives. Enjoy food, drinks, and the chance to win exciting prizes while making a difference. Spots are limited. Sponsored by Court 16. Learn more.

May 21 | Rock for ALTSO | Space, Chicago | 6 PM CT

Featuring music by August Son, Blue Sky Highway, Ex Maquina, Matt Scharpf and The Bono Brothers, and The Mixaphors. Tickets are $25 online; $30 at the door. Learn more.

October 16 | Rocktoberfest NYC | Hard Rock Cafe, Times Square | 7 PM ET

Rock out to music headlined by leaders in the New York City financial community at ALTSO’s 22nd Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC. Super Early Bird tickets are on sale June 1. Select performance slots available. Inquire about sponsoring. Learn more.

October 23 | Rocktoberfest CHI | House of Blues, Chicago | 6 PM CT

Rock out to music headlined by leaders in the Chicago financial community at ALTSO’s 22nd Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC. Super Early Bird tickets are on sale June 1. Select performance slots available. Inquire about sponsoring. Learn more.

If you’re looking for additional opportunities to support ALTSO’s programming, consider joining ALTSO’s NextGen Club, CoolKids Club, or Rocktoberfest planning committees. Reach out for more information here


 

DECEMBER 10, 2024

A Leg To Stand On’s (ALTSO’s) Rocktoberfest Series Raises $1 MM for Second Year in a Row

A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO), NYC based nonprofit dedicated to providing children living with disabilities in emerging countries with life-changing mobility care, is thrilled to announce that Rocktoberfest, its annual fundraising concert series which unites financial services leaders annually in New York City and Chicago, raised over $1,000,000 for the second year in a row.

This year’s Rocktoberfest events hosted thousands of dedicated advocates, 20+ bands, and 50+ leading financial institutions through the shared belief that mobility is more than movement: it’s a human right. ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest series has been instrumental in helping ALTSO serve over 24,000 CoolKids since 2003 as well as raising awareness of the immense need for mobility care: only 10% of people in low income countries have access to the mobility care they need compared to the 90% of people in high-income countries who do.

Gabriella Mueller-Evrard, Executive Director, said, “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our advocates, we will be able to serve more than 1,000 children next year, fitting them with the high-quality orthopedic care they need to access mobility and the transformative opportunities it offers. In addition to the new children we will welcome into our programs in 2025, the events’ success ensures we can provide continuous care to CoolKids like Sopriya, who has been enrolled in ALTSO's programs for over a decade and is now the first in her family to attend university."

According to ATscale, Global Partnership for Assistive Technology hosted by UNOPS, investment in assistive technology will result in a return on investment of 9:1, and specifically “for a child in a low- or middle-income country, access to AT can later make a difference of US$100,000 in lifetime income.” Sopriya’s story is just one example of the profound impact that access to high-quality, continuous care mobility can make.

ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest events will return in 2025, building on this year’s momentum and helping to scale ALTSO’s impact. To read the recap, view photos, or inquire about opportunities to sponsor or perform in 2025, visit ALTSO’s website or reach out to Gabriella Mueller-Evrard at gevrard@altso.org.

To celebrate the success of Rocktoberfest and help reach ALTSO’s year end goal of raising an additional $100,000 to enroll 200 children for mobility care in the new year, ALTSO’s Board of Directors is matching donations, up to $10,000. 

EFSI has partnered with ALTSO to bring greater awareness of the importance of access to high-quality mobility care. Anthony Mascia, Managing Member of EFSI, said, “We have long championed charities and non-profits that provide hope and support to children in need. We’re proud to partner with ALTSO to provide children in emerging countries with care that uplifts and empowers, and I encourage others to join us.”

In 2024, ALTSO provided 1,202 children with mobility care in 10 programs across 9 countries, supporting 37 clinics throughout Asia, Africa, and Europe. Your support provides independence, access to education, future employment, and dignity. To see the impact of your support in action, visit altso.org. Together, we’re transforming the next generation - one CoolKid at a time.

Special thanks to Rocktoberfest Legacy Sponsors: ADM Investor Services, Belvedere Trading, Cboe Global Markets, CME Group, GlobeTax, Jacobs Asset Management, Morgan Stanley, OCC, Quanteam, Wedbush, and Wells Fargo.

Additional Rocktoberfest corporate sponsors include: Ray Bloch Productions, Clear Street, BattleFin, BTIG, Baird, Barclays, Berenberg Capital Markets, Canaccord Genuity, Cantor, CIBC, Citi, CrowdSync, Janney Montgomery Scott, Jefferies, Liquidnet, Nomura, RBC Capital Markets, Piper Sandler, Rachel Glazer Team at Compass, Stifel, Susquehanna, Syntax, Symphony, TD Securities, Tigress Financial Partners, TRITEC Americas, UBS, Velocity Clearing, Virtu, Geneva Trading, Advantage Futures, Barchart, Gate 39, IMC, ION, Janus Henderson Investors, KRM22, Macquarie Futures USA, MIAX, Prime Trading, RCM Alternatives, R.J. O'Brien, XR Trading. Thanks to beverage sponsors, Hampton Water Rose, Harmony Gin, Fiol Prosecco, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Mount Gay Rum, Hiatus Tequila, and Three Chord Bourbon.


 

OCTOBER 16, 2024

A Leg To Stand On’s (ALTSO’s) Rocktoberfest Series Continues in Chicago, This Wednesday, October 16th

Join A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) and the Chicago financial community on October 16th, at their 13th Annual Rocktoberfest-Chicago at its new home, House of Blues. The event features a night of rock and roll music headlined by industry leaders and their peers to raise funds to help provide free prosthetic limbs and wheelchairs to children in emerging countries. Buy a ticket to 'Rock For Good' or support the cause with a tax-deductible donation here.

MUSIC ON TWO STAGES.

Main Stage: ALTSO All Stars, August Son, Bad Dads, Blue Sky Highway, Hive of Scum and Villainy, and The Operators

Acoustic Stage: ALTSO All Stars London, Biscuits & Groovy, Kerosene, The Mixaphors, and Wild Oats Duo

LIFE CHANGING IMPACT.

OCC returns as Rocktoberfest-Chicago's Exclusive GLOW Sponsor. Carla Dawson, Chief Human Resources Officer at OCC, said, “We have proudly sponsored Rocktoberfest since 2015 because we believe in ALTSO's mission. Their work to provide mobility care to children with limb disabilities in emerging countries has a transformative effect on their lives, and we are proud to continue our support this year."

Event attendees can make a difference by participating in ALTSO’s signature fundraising campaign, GLOW!. By donating to provide a child with a specific mobility treatment – prosthetic foot ($100), custom orthotic braces ($200), Joshi prosthetic limb ($250), or an appropriately fitted wheelchair ($500) – donors will receive a LED bracelet to light up the night in honor of ALTSO’s CoolKids.

PHOTO MOMENTS.

Event attendees will have the opportunity to pose for a photo in an onsite Photo Booth, sponsored by Belvedere Trading, providing guests with a keepsake that will serve as a tangible reminder of their participation and commitment to ALTSO's mission. By sharing these photos on social media, attendees can amplify their advocacy efforts and help raise awareness of the vital work ALTSO does to provide mobility care to ALTSO’s CoolKids.

“Team Belvedere is thrilled to return to ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest! We’re proud to support such an incredible organization and its mission. Let’s rock for a great cause!”

PARTNERSHIPS.

ALTSO is excited to announce they are the Exclusive Charity Partner of BattleFin's Discovery Day Chicago. Through this partnership, BattleFin is offering Rocktoberfest attendees complimentary tickets to their AI and Alt Data event, to be held during the day on October 16th (saving $995!).

“We are honored to partner with ALTSO and support their important work,” said Tim Harrington, CEO and Co-Founder at BattleFin. "Rocktoberfest and BattleFin Discovery Day both bring together a passionate audience, and we’re excited to combine the fun and energy of the day with a shared commitment to making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Apply for your free ticket to BattleFin Discovery day here to learn how AI and Data are impacting the investment world.

Special thanks to Rocktoberfest-Chicago Legacy Sponsors: ADM Investor Services, Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor; Belvedere Trading, Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor; CME Group; OCC, Exclusive GLOW sponsor; Cboe Global Markets; Wedbush.

Additional Rocktoberfest-Chicago sponsors include: Geneva Trading, Advantage Futures, Barchart, CrowdSync, Gate 39, IMC, ION, Janus Henderson Investors, KRM22, Macquarie Futures USA, MIAX, Prime Trading, RCM Alternatives, R.J. O'Brien, and XR Trading.

Since 2003, ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest community has transformed the lives of 23,000+ children, empowering the next generation with access to continuous mobility care one CoolKid at a time. Event proceeds will help ALTSO continue expanding their care.


 

OCTOBER 8, 2024

Join A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) at Rocktoberfest-NYC This Thursday, October 10th

Join A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) and the New York financial community on October 10th at their 21st Anniversary Rocktoberfest-NYC for a night of outstanding music headlined by industry leaders and their peers raising funds to help provide critical mobility care to kids in emerging countries. It’s not too late to buy a ticket and make a difference. Here’s what to expect:


INCREDIBLE MUSIC. Unite with your peers through the power of music. 

Main Stage: Achieves Most, Billswitch Engage, Midnight Raiders, and Private Key

Acoustic Stage: Acoustic Karma, Bongo Billy & Friends, Sean Driscoll & Mike Alicona, The Singing CPA, and To The Bridge.


Neil Giraldo, musician, record producer, songwriter and founder of Three Chord Bourbon, said, "It's always inspiring to be part of an organization like ALTSO that brings together people who share a passion for music and community. It's a perfect fit with Three Chord Bourbon's values, and we're so proud to be a sponsor of this event."

Neil Giraldo will be joining the band Midnight Raiders on the Main Stage for a special performance at Rocktoberfest-NYC. Don't miss it!

A CHANCE TO GLOW! Empower one CoolKid at a time with mobility care. 

Event attendees will have the opportunity to make a difference by participating in ALTSO’s signature fundraising campaign, GLOW!.  By donating to provide a specific mobility treatment – prosthetic foot ($100), custom orthotic braces ($200), Joshi prosthetic limb ($250), or an appropriately fitted wheelchair ($500) – donors will receive a CrowdSync LED bracelet to light up the night and sync to the music. 

Event proceeds will help ALTSO continue expanding their extraordinary impact, reaching the most vulnerable children. Only 10% of people in low-income countries can access the assistive technology they need, compared to 90% in high-income countries. 

A TASTE OF VIP. Exclusive perks for the event’s sponsors, musicians, and top advocates.

VIP ticket holders will enjoy special tastings from the event’s beverage sponsors including Mount Gay Rum, Hiatus Tequila, and Three Chord Bourbon. Plus, special giveaways from Lysian, The Plug, and more!  

Hampton Water Rose, Harmony Gin, Fiol Prosecco, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka are also proud to return as committed exclusive beverage sponsors.

Jeremy Driesen, President of Ray Bloch Productions, said, “RBP is honored to return as the Exclusive Production Partner of Rocktoberfest NYC. It's a privilege to be part of this event and help support children in need of high-quality mobility aids. We can’t wait to rock out this week."

This year’s event is made possible by the generous support of more than 30 industry leaders in New York. Special thanks to Rocktoberfest-NYC Legacy Sponsors: GlobeTax, Jacobs Asset Management, Morgan Stanley, Quanteam, and Wells Fargo. 

Additional Rocktoberfest-NYC sponsors include Clear Street, BTIG, Baird, Barclays, Berenberg Capital Markets, Canaccord Genuity, Cantor, Citi, CrowdSync, Janney Montgomery Scott, Jefferies, Liquidnet, Nomura, RBC Capital Markets, Piper Sandler, Rachel Glazer Team at Compass, Stifel, Susquehanna, Syntax Data, Symphony, TD Securities, Tigress Financial Partners, TRITEC Americas, UBS,  Velocity Clearing, and Virtu.


 

SEPTEMBER 25, 2024

A Special Message of Thanks from ALTSO’s Executive Director, Gabriella Mueller-Evrard

Rock For Good in New York on October 10th and in Chicago on October 16th

NEW YORK CITY - September 25, 2024 – I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for being a part of A Leg To Stand On’s (ALTSO’s) journey. For over two decades, our Rocktoberfest concert series has gathered advocates and committed sponsors from the financial services community for memorable nights of live music, headlined by industry leaders as talented as they are dedicated.

I’ve had the privilege of helping produce these events alongside our dedicated team for 16 years, hosting at first a couple hundred guests in New York, to more than 1,500 expected in New York and nearly 800 in Chicago this October. Each year, Rocktoberfest not only brings us together but also inspires meaningful action, reminding us of the immense potential - and responsibility - we have to make a lasting impact in the lives of others.

Since 2003, Rocktoberfest has helped provide over 23,000 children with high-quality prosthetic limbs, orthotic braces, and appropriately fitted wheelchairs, offering instant mobility and the life-altering opportunities that creates.

In 2013, during a site visit to our program in Cambodia, I met a young boy under ALTSO’s care named Panha. He lived with his family in a small wooden home on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, where heavy commercial traffic was common. At the age of five, Panha was struck by a bus while playing in his front yard, losing his leg.

Panha faced an uncertain future, his family unable to afford a prosthetic limb. That uncertainty would have persisted if not for the support of our Rocktoberfest community.

After receiving his first prosthetic limb, Panha was excited to walk independently again and play with his friends. He shared: “My prosthesis helps me a lot…without my prosthesis, I cannot go to school.” We committed to covering Panha’s care as he grew to ensure his mobility would not be jeopardized again. Today, Panha is a high school graduate and entrepreneur - the first in his family - successfully running his own photography and filmmaking business.

Panha’s story is just one of 23,000 children we have served together; each is a testament to the collective generosity of our community. Last year, we raised over $1 million at our Rocktoberfest series. This Fall, with your continued support, we are working to match that success, allowing us to continue reaching the most vulnerable and underserved children. We’re building a more accessible and equitable future for children everywhere, one CoolKid at a time.

I look forward to seeing you in New York on October 10th or in Chicago on October 16th. Whether you’ll be with us in person or in spirit, we invite you to make a donation or buy a ticket to ‘Rock For Good.’

Thank you for supporting ALTSO, our CoolKids, and their families. Here’s to the next 23,000 children we’ll serve, together.

With gratitude,

Gabriella Mueller-Evrard

Executive Director

Our legacy is defined by our impact on others. Each with over five years of continued support, our Legacy Sponsors are transforming the future of the next generation: ADM, the Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor; Belvedere Trading, the Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-Chicago; CME Group; OCC, the Exclusive GLOW Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-Chicago; Cboe Global Markets, GlobeTax, Jacobs Asset Management, Quanteam, and Wells Fargo.

Special thanks to additional sponsors: Ray Bloch Productions, the Exclusive Production Partner of Rocktoberfest-NYC; Advantage Futures, Baird, Barchart, Berenberg Capital Markets, BTIG, Canaccord Genuity, Clear Street, CrowdSync, Geneva Trading, IMC, ION, Janney, Janus Henderson Investors, KRM22, Liquidnet, Macquarie Futures USA, MIAX, Morgan Stanley, Nomura, Prime Trading, RBC Capital Markets, RCM Alternatives, Stifel, Susquehanna, Symphony, Syntax Data, TD Securities, Tigress Financial Partners, UBS, Velocity Clearing, Virtu, and XR Trading


 

SEPTEMBER 12, 2024

A Leg To Stand On’s (ALTSO’s) Thanks Sponsors Driving the Success of Annual Rocktoberfest Events

Rock For Good in New York on October 10th and in Chicago on October 16th

Tickets for A Leg To Stand On’s (ALTSO's) annual concert fundraising series Rocktoberfest, returning to New York City on Thursday, October 10th and Chicago on Wednesday, October 16th, are on sale now. The events will unite 2,200+ professionals from the finance industry and over thirty sponsors for a night of live music featuring bands made up of industry leaders. Tickets include access to music on two stages, dinner, open bar, and help provide children in emerging countries with high-quality prosthetic limbs, orthotic braces, and appropriately fitted wheelchairs.

ADM Investor Services returns as Rocktoberfest-Chicago’s Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor. Kurt Johnson, VP Business Development at ADM Investor Services said, “We’ve proudly supported ALTSO since 2016 and are committed to advocating for a more inclusive world where mobility is a right, not a privilege."

In the months leading to ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest events, bands raise money to help provide critical orthopedic care, competing to see who can help the most children. Since 2003, ALTSO has provided free mobility care to over 23,000 children, in large part thanks to the success of Rocktoberfest and the generosity of the finance industry. Click on a band’s name below to see who is rocking in a city near you, and buy a ticket or make a donation in their honor.

ALTSO’s 21st Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC | October 10th at The Hard Rock Cafe.

Main Stage Lineup: Achieves Most, Billswitch Engage, Midnight Raiders, Private Key, and The Cat5s

Acoustic Stage Lineup: Acoustic Karma, Bongo Billy & Friends, The Singing CPA, and To The Bridge


ALTSO’s 13th Annual Rocktoberfest-CHI | October 16th at The House of Blues.

Main Stage Lineup: ALTSO All Stars, August Son, Bad Dads, Blue Sky Highway, Hive of Scum and Villainy, and The Operators

Acoustic Stage Lineup: Biscuits & Groovy, The Cat2s, The Mixaphors, and ALTSO All Stars London

ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest-Chicago is moving to the House of Blues, with new and returning sponsors alike joining to ‘Rock For Good.’

“We are excited to be sponsoring Rocktoberfest-Chicago,” said Rob Creamer, Chief Executive Officer at Geneva Trading. “We are proud to support ALTSO’s commitment to long-term, high quality mobility care and contribute to a world where every child has the tools needed to realize their full potential.”

This year, ALTSO has partnered with technology provider CrowdSync to add an interactive experience for donors when they participate in the onsite fundraiser, GLOW. Attendees will receive an LED bracelet that lights up the night in sync to the music when they donate to provide a prosthetic foot ($100), orthotic braces ($200), Joshi prosthetic limb ($250), wheelchair ($500), or a year of treatment ($1,000).

Will Garin, Account Executive at CrowdSync said, “We’re excited to be working with ALTSO to boost the experience for their generous advocates. Our LED wristbands are the perfect addition to Rocktoberfest and we can’t wait to light up the night in honor of their CoolKids.”

Special thanks to additional sponsors Belvedere Trading, the Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-Chicago; OCC, the Exclusive GLOW Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-Chicago; Ray Bloch Productions, the Exclusive Production Partner of Rocktoberfest-NYC; Baird, Barchart, Berenberg Capital Markets, BTIG, Canaccord Genuity, Cboe Global Markets, Clear Street, CME Group, GlobeTax, ION, KRM22, Liquidnet, Macquarie Futures USA, MIAX, Prime Trading, RCM Alternatives, Stifel, TD Securities, Velocity Clearing, Wells Fargo, and XR Trading.

In anticipation of October's events, ALTSO’s annual Pre-Jam Session, exclusively featuring Rocktoberfest bands, will return to The Bitter End on September 17th. $30 at door cash donation benefits their CoolKids.


 

JUNE 11, 2024

Tickets for A Leg To Stand On’s (ALTSO’s) Annual Rocktoberfest Events Now on Sale

Rock For Good in New York on October 10th and in Chicago on October 16th

Advocates of A Leg To Stand On are eagerly anticipating the return of the non-profit organization’s signature benefit, Rocktoberfest. This year’s fundraising concerts in New York City (10.10.24) and Chicago (10.16.24) will unite more than 2,200 professionals from the alternative investments and financial services industry for nights of live music featuring bands comprised of industry leaders. Super Early Bird tickets are now on sale. Ticket prices will increase on July 1st.

Sponsorship opportunities and limited performance slots are available. Please contact info@altso.org for details.

Proceeds from ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest series, launched in New York 21 years ago, have helped provide more than 23,000 children in emerging countries with high-quality prosthetic limbs, orthotic braces, and appropriately fitted wheelchairs. Last year’s record-breaking events raised over $1 million, enabling ALTSO to expand its programs. The organization currently operates 12 programs in 11 countries throughout Asia, Africa, and Europe.

In honor of its 21st year in operation, ALTSO is launching ‘21,’ a cross-sector collaboration designed exclusively for private prosthetic limb clinics in emerging international cities. This initiative aims to build a network of like-minded clinics to ensure more children have global access to free, high-quality prosthetic care.

“It’s estimated that only 5-15% of amputees in any given population have access to a prosthesis. The social sector in emerging countries lacks the resources, number of clinics, and qualified staff needed to tackle this problem on their own.” said A.J. Warco, ALTSO’s Director of Programs. “With 21, we’re partnering with private clinics to provide our Joshi prosthetic limb components and accessories to the most vulnerable children around the world. We’re revolutionizing what it means to give back to your community.”

For more information on Rocktoberfest tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please email Gabriella Mueller-Evrard, Executive Director, at gevrard@altso.org or visit www.altso.org/rocktoberfest.


 

APRIL 18, 2024

A Leg To Stand On Announces 2024 Rocktoberfest Dates in NYC and Chicago

Plus! Explore year-round personal and professional opportunities to support kids living with disabilities

A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) proudly announces the anticipated return of its esteemed concert series, Rocktoberfest, following a remarkable  fundraising milestone of $1 million last year. This year’s events will return to New York City on Thursday, October 10th to its historic home, the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square, and Chicago on Wednesday, October 16th to the legendary House of Blues. The events will unite 2,200+ professionals from the alternative investments and finance industry for a night of live music, featuring bands made up of their peers. 

Fueled by industry generosity, for over twenty years attendees from hedge funds, fintech, asset management firms, private equity, banks, prop trading firms, exchanges, and clearing firms, have gathered in October to advance ALTSO’s mission. Rocktoberfest proceeds have helped provide over 23,000 underserved children in emerging countries with prosthetic limbs, orthotic braces, and appropriately fitted wheelchairs.

Last year’s record-breaking events have empowered ALTSO to expand its programs' reach in order to help the world’s most vulnerable children. This year’s proceeds will sustain the partnerships forged. For the first time, Super Early Bird Tickets go on sale June 1st, available for one month only. 

For those looking to make an immediate impact, ALTSO offers year-round opportunities to support its mission: 

Move For ALTSO Virtual Movement Competition (May 6 - 10) & Pickleball Tournament (May 9). Celebrate Mobility Awareness Month and join ALTSO’s advocates as they move 5,000 miles and raise $50,000 to help 100 children. Sign up with your co-workers, clients, or friends and move however you want (walk, bike, swim, roll). Participants track their mileage, advocate, and fundraise. The top mover and fundraiser will win a voucher toward a pair of shoes, courtesy of event sponsor Right To Run, On's social impact program. Or, meet your co-workers on the court for ALTSO’s Pickleball Tournament, to be held on May 9th at Court 16 FiDi. 

Rock For ALTSO at The Cutting Room in NYC (May 22). Grab the team and meet ALTSO at The Cutting Room at 6:00 PM on May 22nd for the ultimate happy hour featuring performances by The Warriors From Mars, The Cause and The Cat5s. Tickets are $75 when purchased online or $100 when purchased at the door. Plus, for the first time, reserve the best seats in the house with limited VIP seating. 

Join ALTSO’s Young Professional NextGen Club. The NextGen Club provides a platform for networking, professional development, and community engagement. Make a difference while developing skills and connections that benefit your personal and professional growth. 

Stream A Leg To Stand On Music. Rock for good 365 days a year by streaming, downloading, and purchasing music donated by artists, to help CoolKids walk & roll. Check out the label’s latest release by Toxic Frogs, here.

The greatest investment you can make is in a child’s future. All tickets, donations, and sponsorships provide critical mobility aids, offering the fundamental tools needed to break the cycle of poverty – independence, access to education, community, and future gainful employment. To learn more about the difference of mobility, meet Sopriya, a CoolKid ALTSO had the chance to reconnect with on a February site visit to Cambodia. 


 

NOVEMBER 28, 2023

A Leg To Stand On’s Rocktoberfest Series Raises $1 MM to Provide Mobility to Children in Developing World

Milestone year for the nonprofit celebrated with special thanks to Chicago GLOW Sponsor OCC

A Leg To Stand On’s (ALTSO's) annual Rocktoberfest events, held in New York and Chicago, raised over $1 million this year to provide free prosthetic limbs, orthotic braces, and appropriately fitted wheelchairs to children living with disabilities in developing countries. This marks a momentous milestone for ALTSO, who is also celebrating their 20th anniversary and the 22,600 children they have treated since 2003. 

ALTSO’s 12th Annual Rocktoberfest-Chicago, held on October 5th at City Winery, and 20th Anniversary Rocktoberfest-NYC, held on October 19th at the Hard Rock Cafe, united over 2,000 advocates from the financial services industry who gathered to ‘rock for good’ to live music performed by industry leaders.  

Ray Bloch Productions, a NYC-based live event production company renowned for creating and producing meaningful corporate events including The SALT Conference, Crypto Bahamas, and many more Fortune 500 company events, proudly served as the Exclusive Production Partner for ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest-NYC. Their 70 years of exceptional production expertise set the stage for a memorable and remarkable anniversary celebration. 

In alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, ALTSO's events demonstrate their community’s commitment to building a more inclusive and sustainable world. The success of this year’s Rocktoberfest series will help ALTSO increase their patient enrollment next year, helping to build a world with reduced inequalities, improved accessibility, and upward mobility for children everywhere

A.J. Warco, ALTSO’s Director of Programs, shared, “We extend our heartfelt thanks to our community of advocates. The resounding success of this year’s events will elevate our capacity to provide high-quality care to every child within our 11 programs. The power to change lives lies within each one of us. The difference you are making in the lives of our CoolKids, their families, and their greater communities is nothing short of remarkable."

Rocktoberfest sponsors fuel ALTSO’s mission. This year’s sponsors include ABN Amro, ARB Trading Group, ADM Investor Services, Baird, Barchart, Belvedere Trading, Berenberg Capital, Bloomberg, BNP Paribas, BTIG, Cboe, Citi, Clear Street, CME Group, DV Trading, Element Capital, Gate 39 Media, GlobeTax, Guggenheim Securities, Intercontinental Exchange, Jacobs Asset Management, Janney Montgomery Scott, Jefferies, KRM22, Liquidnet, Morgan Stanley, Nomura, NYSE, OCC, OpenBet, Piper Sandler & Co, Prime Trading, Quanteam, Ray Bloch Productions, RBC, Shure, Sound Advice, SteelEye, Stifel, Susquehanna Financial Group, Syntax, TD Cowen a division of TD Securities, Virtu, Wedbush, and Wells Fargo.

Carla Dawson, Chief Human Resources Officer at OCC, Exclusive GLOW sponsor at Rocktoberfest-Chicago, said, “We have been a proud Rocktoberfest sponsor since 2015 and were pleased to continue our support this year. Our employees had an incredible time rocking for good together in support of ALTSO’s work to provide healthcare to children with disabilities around the world.” 

This record-breaking fundraising year was made possible with support from Phaidon International, whose staff generously volunteered to lead ALTSO’s fundraising series at both events, helping to change the lives of children all over the world.

Jack Trudeau, Global Head of Partnerships at Phaidon International said “At Phaidon International, we are dedicated to giving back and investing in our local communities. ALTSO’s mission is one that we wholeheartedly support. Not only did we have a few dozen employees support at both events, but we raised a record-breaking amount of money to help ALTSO’s CoolKids. I am exceptionally proud of our team's dedication and passion, which made this achievement possible.” 

The success of this year's events serves as a powerful call to action for all to consider the impact they can make. This Giving Tuesday, ALTSO encourages new advocates, sponsors, and corporate partners to join their mission in creating a more inclusive world for children in need. Learn more at altso.org/eoy or reach out to the ALTSO team at info@altso.org.


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OCTOBER 18, 2023

ALTSO to Celebrate 20th Anniversary Rocktoberfest-NYC on Thursday, October 19th

Signature event to celebrate 20 years of ALTSO alongside 30+ Corporate Sponsors

Join A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) and the New York financial community on October 19th at their 20th Anniversary Rocktoberfest-NYC for an unforgettable night of impact and outstanding live music performed by industry leaders. Get your tickets here to be part of something extraordinary. Special thanks to Guest Experience Sponsor, Element Capital.

ALTSO started their celebrations Monday afternoon with C. Mead Wells, Co-Founder and Chairman of ALTSO, ringing The Closing Bell at NYSE alongside members of ALTSO’s staff, board, and Rocktoberfest musicians.

Mead Welles reflected on the milestone stating,“Over the past two decades, the remarkable generosity of our sponsors and advocates has enabled Rocktoberfest to make a profound impact on the lives of more than 22,000 children, their families, and their communities. We are thrilled to celebrate our 20th Anniversary of Rocktoberfest-NYC, reflecting on our life-changing achievements, and coming together to support those who are still awaiting critical mobility treatment."

At ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest this Thursday, attendees will enjoy an open bar, passed appetizers, dinner stations, and live music on two stages performed by leaders from the financial services industry. Rocktoberfest will also feature a Photo Booth, sponsored by SteelEye, and exclusive beverage tastings in the VIP Room for sponsors and musicians.

Beverage sponsors include, FIOL, Harmony Gin, Hiatus Tequila, Hampton Water Rosé, Mount Gay Rum, Storica Wine, Widow Jane, and more!

Zack Armen, C-Founder of Armenian wine importer Storica Wine, shared, “We are thrilled to be part of ALTSO's milestone anniversary as first-time sponsors. At [Storica], we are deeply committed to making a meaningful difference, reflecting the country our wines are from – full of life and resiliency – much like ALTSO’s beneficiaries.”

On Thursday, ‘Rock For Good’ alongside your peers to incredible music performed by Achieves Most, ALTSO All Stars New York, Billswitch Engage, The Cause, New York Rock Exchange, Private Key, Acoustic Karma, Chris Caruso, Dimmerswitch, Phil Robinson, Sean Driscoll, To The Bridge, and a special anniversary tribute by JAM Partners with special guests.

Event proceeds will help ALTSO continue expanding their incredible impact. 9 out of 10 children living with disabilities in the developing world cannot afford the medical treatment they need. ALTSO currently operates programs in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Nepal, Pakistan, Romania, Somaliland, and Uganda, helping to serve the world’s most vulnerable children.

Event attendees will have the opportunity to make a greater difference by participating in ALTSO’s signature fundraising campaign, GLOW. By donating to provide a specific mobility treatment -- a pair of crutches ($60), custom orthotic braces ($100), Joshi prosthetic limb ($250), or an appropriately fitted wheelchair ($500) – donors will receive a glowstick to light up the night. Mobility empowers ALTSO’s CoolKids with independence and opens the doors to education and future gainful employment.

This year’s event is made possible by the generous support of more than 30 industry leaders in New York including Baird, Berenberg Capital, Bloomberg, BNP Paribas, BTIG, Citi, Clear Street, Element Capital, GlobeTax, Guggenheim Securities, ICE, Jacobs Asset Management, Janney Montgomery Scott, Jefferies, Liquidnet, Morgan Stanley, Nomura, NYSE, Piper Sandler & Co, Quanteam, Ray Bloch Productions, RBC, SteelEye, Stifel, Susquehanna Financial Group, Syntax, TD Cowen a division of TD Securities, Virtu, Wells Fargo, and more.


 

OCTOBER 4, 2023

Celebrate 20 Years of ALTSO at Rocktoberfest-Chicago on October 5th with Sponsors Shure + OpenBet

ALTSO’s Milestone 20th Anniversary Rocktoberfest-NYC to be Held on October 19th.

Join A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) and the Chicago financial community on October 5th at ALTSO’s 12th Annual Rocktoberfest-Chicago for a night of music and meaningful impact. This year’s event marks a significant milestone in ALTSO’s journey, commemorating the support of their dedicated community of advocates and the 22,000+ children served. Tickets are available here. Special thanks to Guest Experience Sponsor, ADM Investor Services.  

THE DETAILS: Join ALTSO on October 5 at City Winery (1200 W Randolph Street, Chicago).

Attendees will enjoy access to an open bar, passed appetizers, dinner stations, and live music on two stages performed by leaders from the financial services industry. In addition to the fantastic music and philanthropic opportunities, Rocktoberfest will feature an on-site raffle, a special tasting in the VIP Room for sponsors and musicians, and a Photo Booth, sponsored by Team Belvedere. Tickets are on sale until Thursday at 12:00 PM CT, after which they will be available at the door for $250.

THE MUSIC: #RockForGood with your peers and 12 bands. Thursday’s entertainment lineup boasts rock performances by your favorite clients, colleagues, and friends, including ALTSO All Stars Chicago, August Son, Blue Sky Highway, Matthew Scharpf’s Strangers and Saints, Oddsmakers + Ginger, The Operators, ALTSO All Stars London, BandChain, Blankety, Hive of Scum and Villainy, Monet Rue, and Rock Island Line.

THE IMPACT: Celebrating 22,000 CoolKids served and rocking to help those who still wait. An astonishing 9 in 10 children living with disabilities in the developing world cannot afford treatment; event proceeds will help change that. Mobility empowers ALTSO’s CoolKids with independence and opens the doors to education and a brighter future. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to make a difference by participating in ALTSO’s signature fundraising campaign, GLOW. By donating to provide a specific mobility treatment -- a pair of crutches ($60), custom orthotic braces ($100), Joshi prosthetic limb ($250), or an appropriately fitted wheelchair ($500) – donors will receive a glowstick to light up the night. Special thanks to Exclusive GLOW sponsor, OCC. 

Guests are encouraged to explore the event’s impact installations: a captivating 20 Year Timeline; CoolKid portraits, sponsored by Exclusive Impact Sponsors, OpenBet and Shure; and an interactive listening booth experience. These installations will guide guests to understanding the difference mobility makes in the lives of ALTSO’s CoolKids and their families.

THE WORD ON THE STREET: Sponsored by 16 Industry Leaders in Chicago. “We take great pride in our continued sponsorship of Rocktoberfest,” said Cathryn Lai, Chief Commercial Officer at OpenBet. “This event offers us a remarkable platform to make a meaningful impact while fostering connections amongst our employees and the Chicago community. Our team is looking forward to this year's event."

Chris Schyvinck, President and CEO at Shure said, "At Rocktoberfest, we're rocking for a purpose. It's an honor to sponsor Rocktoberfest and contribute to this transformative journey toward a more inclusive society for children living with disabilities."

"The mission of ALTSO, providing mobility aids to children in emerging countries is truly life-changing for them, and improves the world we are all a part of," said Shane Stiles, President of Financial Services and Technology firm Gate 39 Media. "To be able to support this mission, with friends and peers in financial services gathering to perform, sing and dance at Rocktoberfest is simply magical."

"We proudly support ALTSO and their efforts to help children who would otherwise be left behind,” said David Lyon, Co-Founder & CEO at Sound Advice. “Accessibility and inclusivity serve as guiding principles that steer every facet of our work at Sound Advice."

Sponsoring alongside ADM Investor Services, Shure, OpenBet, Team Belvedere, OCC, Gate 39 Media, and Sound Advice are: ABN Amro Clearing, ARB Trading Group, Barchart, Cboe, CME Group, KRM22, Prime Trading, Wedbush, and DV Trading. 

For details on ALTSO’s 20th Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC, to be held on October 19th at Hard Rock Cafe, visit our website. 


 

SEPTEMBER 19, 2023

A Leg To Stand On to Host 35+ Sponsors at their Annual Rocktoberfest Events in Chicago & New York

Exclusive sponsorships sell out in both cities after record-high demand to #RockForGood.

Rocktoberfest, the much-anticipated annual fundraiser for children's charity A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO), is taking Chicago and New York by storm with ALTSO set to host more than 2,000 attendees alongside nearly 40 corporate sponsors. This year’s 12th Annual Rocktoberfest-Chicago will take place on October 5th at City Winery; the organization’s milestone 20th Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC will take place on October 19th at the Hard Rock Cafe. Tickets to both events are on sale here. Net proceeds will provide transformative mobility treatment to children living with untreated disabilities in the developing world.

Exclusive Rocktoberfest Sponsorships ‘Sell Out’ in NYC and Chicago. Exclusive sponsorships give companies the opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of ALTSO’s CoolKids while co-branding one high-traffic Rocktoberfest activation, maximizing their sponsorship’s visibility. 

All exclusives have sold out in NYC, including Element Capital, the Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor; and SteelEye, the Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor. Chicago exclusives have also sold out, featuring: ADM Investor Services, the Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor; Team Belvedere, the Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor; OCC, the Exclusive GLOW sponsor, and Open Bet and Shure, Exclusive Impact Sponsors. 

Team Belvedere said, "We are so excited to once again be a part of ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest. This is a great organization and Team Belvedere is proud to help support." 

Celebrating 20 Years of ALTSO with a Special Buy One, Get One 50% Off Ticket Offer

This year’s events will commemorate 20 years since the launch of ALTSO's first program in Ahmedabad, India, celebrating the 22,000+ children served and the loyal community of Rocktoberfest musicians, sponsors, attendees, and volunteers who have stood by ALTSO. 

In a gesture of gratitude to their supporters, ALTSO is delighted to present an exclusive Rocktoberfest ticket offer: purchase one General Admission ticket and save 50% on the second. Invite a friend to Rocktoberfest and share your impact! Use code ALTSO20. Offer is valid for one week only (through Monday, September 25th).

Event proceeds will ensure ALTSO can continue growing their impact to provide transformative care to vulnerable children; an astonishing 9 in 10 children living with disabilities in the developing world cannot afford the treatment they need. 

Jeremy Driesen, President of Ray Bloch Productions, said, “RBP is honored to be the Exclusive Production Partner of Rocktoberfest NYC. ALTSO’s steadfast commitment to sharing the stories and changing the lives of CoolKids all over the world is an inspiration to us all, and we can’t wait to rock out together this fall!”

The tremendous lineup of NY and Chicago Rocktoberfest sponsors also include: CME Group, Clear Street, Jacobs Asset Management, NYSE, Baird, Berenberg Capital, Citi, GlobeTax, Janney Montgomery Scott, Jefferies, Liquidnet, Nomura, Piper Sandler & Co, Quanteam, Stifel, Susquehanna Financial Group, TD Cowen, a division of TD Securities, ABN AMRO Clearing, ARB Trading Group, Barchart, Cboe, KRM22, Prime Trading, Wedbush, and more!

Pre-Jam Session at The Bitter End on Sept 20th. Get ready for Rocktoberfest by joining ALTSO at their classic Pre-Jam Session at The Bitter End on Sept 20th. The event will exclusively feature this year’s Rocktoberfest lineup. $30 at door cash donation benefits ALTSO’s CoolKids. See here for more details. 


 

SEPTEMBER 6, 2023

A Leg To Stand On to Partner with Returning Sponsor SteelEye at Rocktoberfest this October.

Check out ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest band lineups below to see which of your peers will be gracing the stage!

Over the last two decades, non-profit A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) has successfully united financial communities nationwide for unforgettable evenings of live rock and roll music performed by their peers; the proceeds providing much-needed mobility aids to children known as 'CoolKids' who are living with disabilities in developing countries.

ALTSO's co-founder, C. Mead Welles, paved the way for this remarkable fusion twenty years ago after keenly recognizing the inherent connection between finance and music. What initially began as a "Hedge Fun Happy Hour" has now transformed into the highly anticipated Rocktoberfest events held annually in Chicago and NYC, showcasing the undeniable power of music and the remarkable generosity of the financial services industry.

Amplifying the music and the cause are ALTSO’s Rocktoberfest Sponsors, who invest in the upward mobility of children living with disabilities to help create a future where every child has the mobility tools needed to walk and roll.

Matt Smith, CEO of SteelEye, the Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-NYC said, “SteelEye has been a proud supporter of ALTSO since 2018 and we are honored to be sponsoring this year's photo booth as we celebrate 20 years of ALTSO helping CoolKids walk and roll. Congratulations ALTSO on this incredible achievement - we can’t wait to see the amazing work you will continue to do over the next 20 years!”

Alongside SteelEye, the tremendous lineup of NY and Chicago Rocktoberfest sponsors include: Element Capital, the Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-NYC; Ray Bloch Productions, the Exclusive Production Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-NYC; ICE, the Exclusive Impact Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-NYC; ADM Investor Services, the Exclusive Guest Experience Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-Chicago; OCC, the Exclusive GLOW Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-Chicago; Shure and Open Bet, the Exclusive Impact Sponsors of Rocktoberfest-Chicago; CME Group, Clear Street, Jacobs Asset Management, NYSE, Baird, Berenberg Capital, Citi, GlobeTax, Janney Montgomery Scott, Jefferies, Liquidnet, Nomura, Piper Sandler & Co, Quanteam, Stifel, Susquehanna Financial Group, TD Cowen, ABN AMRO Clearing, ARB Trading Group, Barchart, Cboe, KRM22, Prime Trading, Wedbush, and more!

Thirteen bands across two stages will play at each of this year's Rocktoberfest events. From long-time advocates to passionate newcomers, these talented musicians will come together this October to ‘Rock For Good’. Not only do the musicians generously donate their time and talent to support ALTSO's CoolKids, they inspire their community to take action alongside them.

ALTSO’s 20th Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC - October 19th at The Hard Rock Cafe. Featuring: Achieves Most, ALTSO All Stars New York, Billswitch Engage, The Cause, New York Rock Exchange, and Private Key. With acoustic performances by: Acoustic Karma, Chris Caruso, Dimmerswitch, Phil Robinson, Sean Driscoll, and To The Bridge. And an anniversary tribute by: JAM Partners with special guests.

Support ALTSO’s New York rock stars by:

  • Buying Rocktoberfest tickets here. Special thanks to ALTSO’s Guest Experience Sponsor, Element Capital. 

  • Donating in their honor here. $250 provides a Joshi prosthetic limb; $500 an appropriately fitted wheelchair.

Greg Dabal, a member of The Cause, expressed his excitement, stating, "The Cause has been playing in support of ALTSO since the inaugural Rocktoberfest in 2004. We are immensely honored to have supported ALTSO over the last twenty years and eagerly await this year's upcoming celebration."

ALTSO’s 12th Annual Rocktoberfest-Chicago - October 5th at City Winery. Featuring: ALTSO All Stars Chicago, August Son, Blue Sky Highway, Matthew Scharpf’s Strangers and Saints, Oddsmakers + Ginger, and The Operators. With acoustic performances by: ALTSO All Stars London, BandChain, Blankety, Hive of Scum and Villainy, Monet Rue, Rock Island Line, and Who’s Your Sugar Daddy.

Support ALTSO’s Chicago rock stars by:

  • Buying Rocktoberfest tickets here. Special thanks to ALTSO’s Guest Experience Sponsor, ADM Investor Services. 

  • Donating in their honor here. $250 provides a Joshi prosthetic limb; $500 an appropriately fitted wheelchair.

ALTSO Board Member, Ray McKenzie, helped bring Rocktoberfest to the vibrant city of Chicago over a decade ago. With his invaluable guidance and leadership, the event has become a cherished annual gathering. Mr. McKenzie said, "The Chicago community has embraced ALTSO with open hearts since the inaugural Rocktoberfest-Chicago in 2012. Chicago’s ongoing support for ALTSO's CoolKids continues to inspire me. We look forward to celebrating ALTSO's 20th Anniversary in October."

ALTSO’s Pre-Jam Session - September 20th at The Bitter End. Every year, to prepare for the upcoming Rocktoberfest, ALTSO hosts a pre-jam session at NYC’s iconic Bitter End. Join them for a relaxed night of rock & roll music, exclusively featuring Rocktoberfest bands. $30 at door cash donation benefits their CoolKids. 


AUGUST 2, 2023

A Leg To Stand On Welcomes Back Rocktoberfest Sponsor Element Capital & More!

Rock For Good with your team alongside our sponsors to help children walk and roll.

Rocktoberfest, the annual fundraiser for children's charity A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO), will unite over 2,000 professionals in NYC and Chicago from the alternative investments and finance industry for live rock & roll and acoustic music, featuring over a dozen bands whose talented performers are industry leaders.

This year’s 12th Annual Rocktoberfest-Chicago will take place on October 5th at City Winery; the organization’s milestone 20th Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC will take place on October 19th at the Hard Rock Cafe.

Sponsorships for the event are filling up with more than 16 companies already committed to rock for good this October: Element Capital, the Exclusive Guest Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-NY; ADM Investor Services, the Exclusive Guest Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-Chicago; SteelEye, the Exclusive Photo Booth Sponsor of Rocktoberfest-NYC; CME Group, NYSE, Berenberg Capital, Citi, Jefferies, Liquidnet, Nomura, Piper Sandler & Co, Quanteam, Stifel, Barchart, Wedbush, and more.

A favorite amongst all who have attended since the organization launched their signature event 20 years ago, nearly 90% of this year’s sponsors are repeat supporters. Here’s what a few said about ALTSO’s mission and the celebrated event:

Element Capital: Rocktoberfest-NYC Sponsor Since 2017. Looking forward to rocking for good! “We are counting down the days until we rock for good with our peers again this October,” said Rich Walz, General Counsel of Element Capital. “Our team eagerly awaits this unique and high-energy event year after year. Supporting a cause that improves the health and well-being of children, alleviates poverty, and empowers our next generation is central to Element Capital’s commitment to social impact.”

Wedbush: Rocktoberfest-Chicago Sponsor Since 2016. Supporting eight years and counting. “Wedbush sponsoring Rocktoberfest initially seemed like support for a local charity, but we have come to understand this local effort is part of something much bigger and truly special,” said Bob Fitzsimmons, EVP Wedbush Securities Inc. “For eight years, we have witnessed our impact on the lives of these children and their families and are proud to sponsor this year once again.”

Barchart: Rocktoberfest-Chicago Sponsor Since 2021. Making a positive impact.  "Barchart is proud to sponsor ALTSO's Rocktoberfest and help support children facing disabilities around the world," said Barchart CEO Mark Haraburda. "At Barchart, we strongly believe in making a positive impact on our community, and we look forward to ALTSO's Rocktoberfest every year."

Select sponsorship packages are available. Browse packages for Rocktoberfest-NYC, Rocktoberfest-Chicago, or contact ALTSO’s Executive Director, Gabriella Mueller-Evrard, at gevrard@altso.org.

All sponsorships provide physical, social, and economic mobility for children whose families cannot afford care, helping to achieve the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (#1 No Poverty, #3 Good Health and Well Being, #4 Quality Education, #8 Decent Work, #10 Reduce Inequalities).

For 48 hours only, use the discount code TEAMFUN to save 40% off full-priced tickets. Discount is only available when purchasing 5 or more tickets. Purchase tickets for your entire team and Rock For Good alongside our sponsors:

Buy Rocktoberfest-Chicago tickets here. Tickets for Rocktoberfest-Chicago are sponsored by ADM Investor Services.

Buy Rocktoberfest-NYC tickets here. Tickets for Rocktoberfest-NYC are sponsored by Element Capital. 

Counting down the days until you can rock in October? You’re in luck! After a four-year hiatus, ALTSO is returning to the Cutting Room for a Rock For ALTSO concert on August 10th. Rock For ALTSO alongside JAM Partners, Missyou, and Private Key! Grab your tickets now; tickets are $50 when purchased online and $60 at the door.


JUNE 1, 2023

A Leg To Stand On Commemorates 20 Years of Impact with Sponsor ADM Investor Services

Celebrating Partnerships Forged that Create Lasting Impact for Individuals with Disabilities

A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO) is commemorating two decades of providing children living with limb disabilities free, transformative mobility care, offering them the physical capabilities needed to meet their basic needs, attend school, support their families, and engage with their communities.

ALTSO kicked off their anniversary celebrations with a video release featuring one of their first patients, Bhupendra. Bhupendra received his first prosthetic limb in 2006 at the age of eight and, after over a decade in ALTSO’s program, is now a proud college graduate. While as few as 10% of children with disabilities in developing countries attend school, in 2022 71% of ALTSO’s school-aged patients were attending or had already graduated from school.

C. Mead Welles, ALTSO’s Co-Founder and Chairman, said, “Thanks to the unwavering commitment of our team, the generosity of our supporters, and the loyalty of our corporate and foundation partners, we have made a tangible difference in the lives of more than 22,000 children and their families. Over the next 20 years, with the continued help of our growing community, we are positioned to make an even greater impact.”

Since its founding, ALTSO has partnered with nearly 1,000 companies that, in addition to providing financial or pro-bono support, actively engage their employees in volunteer opportunities and awareness campaigns. Together, these partnerships have had a tangible impact in inspiring others to continue building a more inclusive society, advocating for disability rights, and taking responsibility in creating a more equitable future.

Court 16, a tennis academy with locations in Brooklyn, Long Island City, and Manhattan, recently sponsored a pickleball tournament in support of the organization’s Move For ALTSO campaign, celebrating May’s Mobility Awareness Month. The partnership and the sport – known for its inclusivity and accessibility, align perfectly with the organization’s values. In one month, the campaign united individuals and companies alike and raised enough funds to enroll more than 84 children for mobility treatment.

Anthony Evrard, Co-Founder and CEO of Court 16, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “As athletes, we know firsthand the impact that sport can make in every facet of our lives. Like ALTSO, we believe that mobility is a human right. We are proud to support ALTSO and to help ensure that more children receive the mobility care needed to unlock the opportunities they deserve.”

Inspired to take action, multinational developer Fosun Hive is hosting a Pickleball tournament open exclusively to tenants of 28 Liberty, on June 7th. Thomas Costanzo, Global Partner of Fosun and CEO of Four Trees Asset Management said,“28 Liberty and its tenants are proud to partner with leaders in the community who are dedicated to providing mobility treatment to those who lack access to proper care."

Celebrations for ALTSO’s milestone anniversary will culminate at their annual Rocktoberfest events alongside loyal sponsors, including Barchart, Berenberg Capital, Jefferies, Nomura, Piper Sandler & Co, Quanteam, Stifel and more. ALTSO’s 12th Annual Rocktoberfest-Chicago will be held on October 5th at City Winery and their 20th Annual Rocktoberfest-NYC will be held on October 19th at the Hard Rock Cafe. Early bird priced Rocktoberfest tickets are on sale for NYC here and for Chicago here.

Tickets for this year’s Rocktoberfest-Chicago are generously sponsored by ADM Investor Services. Kurt Johnson, VP, Business Development, at ADM Investor Services said, “We have been proudly sponsoring ALTSO since 2016 and are honored to support the life-changing work that they do. We look forward to celebrating their 20th anniversary this October and are committed to continue advocating for all children living with disabilities around the world.”

Sponsorship opportunities for both events are now available. Sponsors have the opportunity to drive client and employee engagement, market their brand to prospective leads with digital and onsite branding opportunities, and fulfill their CSR & ESG goal with standard and exclusive packages. Thanks to an expanded acoustic set, spots for acoustic musicians are also available. Inquiries can be made here.

You can inquire about hosting your own Pickleball charity event, becoming a Rocktoberfest sponsor, or forging a year-round partnership by emailing ALTSO’s Executive Director, Gabriella Mueller-Evrard at gevrard@altso.org or filling out this form.