They Often Cry Outreach (TOCO) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of under-privileged, at-risk and orphaned children in the Caribbean and beyond through sport, enrichment, educational and wellness programs.

Founder Taj Weekes is committed to utilizing his talents to bring awareness to the issues of poverty, global warming, HIV/AIDS and diabetes through his music as well as through TOCO’s programs and strategic partnerships. In light of positive contributions to the Caribbean community, Weekes has been named a Goodwill Ambassador by the International Consortium of Caribbean Professionals (ICCP) in conjunction with WAFUNIF (World Association of Former U.N. Interns & Fellows), a division of the United Nations.

With the belief that one soccer ball can improve a child’s health, confidence, self-esteem and self-discipline, TOCO’s soccer programs are being implemented to empower schools and community groups with the supplies and support needed to teach basic soccer skills and organize neighborhood tournaments. Soccer balls, equipment, sneakers, cleats, t-shirts and uniforms are being collected through individual donations and corporate sponsorships for distribution to children throughout the Caribbean islands.

TOCO SOCCER was inspired by Weekes’ own childhood in St. Lucia where he experienced first-hand the benefits of the game. The goals of the program include addressing the accelerated rate of diabetes throughout the Caribbean as well as to provide a fun, healthy community-based activity while building a knowledge within the children that they do have the power to rise above their circumstances.

Following Hurricane Katrina, Weekes penned songs of hope, strength, and triumph in memory of those affected by the tragedy for his upcoming album A Waterlogged Soul Kitchen, due out January 2010. A portion of the proceeds will be distributed by TOCO to children’s programs in New Orleans.

In response to the crisis in Darfur, Weekes wrote Orphans Cry, featured on his 2008 release, DEIDEM, in order to bring special focus to the children affected by these atrocities. Weekes and his band, Adowa, are dedicated to raising awareness during their performances across the country as well as by participating in fundraising events for Darfur.

For more information on They Often Cry Outreach and its programs, visit the TOCO website.

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