From Music to Momentum: Accelerating Hope
Particle Accelerator honors lives lost to suicide, builds awareness through music and community
PUTNAM — Every year, the Young family gathers the community to celebrate the life of their son, Jack Young, Jr., through the Particle Accelerator Music Fest. Jack was a gifted musician who played in numerous bands, was a storyteller and artist. After losing him to suicide, his family and friends chose to honor his memory in a way that reflects both his love of music and their commitment to helping others.
Sept. 13 was one of those beautiful days.
The name Particle Accelerator carries a powerful meaning. In science, a particle accelerator propels tiny particles to extraordinary speeds, unleashing energy that reveals hidden truths about the universe. What begins small becomes a force of discovery and light.
That is exactly what the Particle Accelerator Music Fest represents. Everyone who attends—whether to listen, play music, volunteer, or simply be present—is like a particle. Alone, each of us may feel small, but when we come together, our collective energy accelerates into something transformative:
- Raising awareness about suicide and mental health.
- Building connections that replace isolation with community.
- Creating hope that fuels healing and resilience.
This is why the festival has become more than a concert. It is a movement—a living tribute that transforms loss into light and silence into conversation.
As the festival’s message declares: “From Music to Momentum: Accelerating Hope.” Through music, remembrance, and unity, the Particle Accelerator Music Fest shines brightly—not only as a memorial to Jack’s life, but as an accelerator of awareness, compassion, and hope for all.
Thank You to Our Sponsors: We gratefully acknowledge the generosity of our sponsors, who make the Particle Accelerator Music Fest possible:
- Showcase Sponsor: United Lens Company
- Premier Sponsor: United Lens Company
- Gold Sponsors: bankHometown; Deary’s Gymnastic Supply; Charter Oak, Federal Credit Union; Byrnes Agency, Inc.; Jewett City Savings Bank; Unitarian Universalist Society; NAMI Windham County; Daniel R. Santos, CPA,
- Silver Sponsor: Quest Martial Arts
- Bronze Sponsors: Mohegan Sun; Sarantopoulos & Sarantopoulos, LLC; Gilman & Valade Funeral Homes & Crematory; SPIROL International; Bill’s Bedding and Furniture; Rawson Materials; 85 Main; Baker’s Dozen; Gerardi Insurance Services, Inc.; The Courthouse Bar and Grille; Knights of Columbus, Cargill Council No. 64; Deary’s Stand; Sawdust Coffee House.
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