GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Every smile is worth more than gold when Paul Wane gifts a musical instrument to a child. When he hands a guitar, bass, drum set, horns, or keyboard to an unsuspecting youngster, it reminds him of how a similar gesture once opened doors he never thought possible.

He has a van filled with instruments that will go to new homes at the Fourth Annual Jumpin’ and Jivin’ Juneboree on June 14 at the Boogerville Hideout at 6043 U.S. Highway 17.

The free event, from 2 to 8 p.m., will include bounce houses, a dunk booth, yard games, face-painting, a reptile encounter, a magician, a tie-dye station and will conclude with fireworks.

Including his “Rising Star: Guitars for Kids’” Rockin’ for Stockin’s event in December, Paul and Lisa Wane — along with guitar maker Jay Murphy of Keystone Heights — have given away nearly 500 instruments in the last four years.

However, what will make the upcoming giveaway unique is that the four bands scheduled to play are all Rising Star alums.

“Once a star, always a star,” Wane said.

“All of the bands performing will be rising star bands. These are all children that we've given instruments. That’s the first time that’s happened.

“I'm proud of them and their accomplishments. You know, there's pride involved, knowing that I had a hand in helping them get some good gear. But they're the ones doing the work. They're doing what they feel in their hearts. They're playing their songs, and I'm really proud of them for that.”

The Wanes and volunteers will have about 250 gift bags for children attending. All participants will receive a small musical instrument, such as a kazoo or ukulele, and each child will also receive a free T-shirt and meal.

Paul said he started the foundation to provide an alternative to getting in trouble, drug abuse, sitting behind a computer screen or being on a cellphone most of the day.

“I got my first guitar when I was 8 years old, and it just kind of ingrained in me that’s how kids get their first guitar – somebody’s got to give them one,” Wane said. “I know God chose to save my life with a guitar. I want to make sure, if I can, that I can help another kid get through the tough times because guitars can save you. Music can save you. It’s musical, spiritual medicine.”

Wane is considered one of the premier guitarists in the Southeast. He has played the “Star-Spangled Banner” ahead of Jacksonville Jaguars NFL games in 2023 and 2024, as well as an Orlando Magic NBA game last season.

“This has become personal for Lisa and me,” Paul said. “We want to thank the community, the people in our community, because there's no way we could do this without them. All their support has made all the difference. There are good folks around here.”

For assistance, contact PaulWaneMusic@gmail.com or visit PaulWaneMusic.com.