Musicians with a Mission a Hit for Back Bay Mission

February 12, 2026 | CHHSM-Member Ministry Contribution

The Chitlins was one of the bands lending its support to Musicians with a Mission.

Nearly 200 Back Bay Mission supporters filled Ground Zero Blues Club in Biloxi, Miss., this past September for “Musicians with a Mission,” a night of live music, amazing community, and true generosity. Together, attendees made the event Back Bay Mission’s most successful event to date. With a goal of $20,000, the event raised $21,000.

In 2025, “we set an ambitious $20,000 goal,” said Dhiana Skrmetti, BBM’s development director. “With cuts to federal funding and an intense growing need for our programs, every dollar mattered more than ever. Thanks to the incredible support, we not only met that goal, we exceeded it!”

BBM front desk receptionist Pam Spegner with Barefoot Neighborhood founder Matthew Bounds.

Thanks to the attendees at Musicians with a Mission, “families will have safe housing … unsheltered neighbors will have clean clothes, showers, groceries, and compassion,” Skrmetti said. “Back Bay Mission can continue to strengthen neighborhoods, seek justice, and transform lives across the Mississippi Gulf Coast!”

The night was alive with music from local Southern Rock bands, The Chitlins and Billy Miller & The Soul Savants. They played familiar tunes while staff and guests enjoyed a magical night, all for a great cause.

“The Development team planned and labored for months, pouring our love into Musicians with a Mission, knowing every bit of effort would benefit those we serve,” said Skrmetti. “But we didn’t have to do it alone. The local community showed up and showed out for us at Back Bay Mission. So many local businesses donated goods to our silent auction and wheel of fun. We couldn’t have done it without their help.”

Fund raisers during the evening included a crowd favorite Wheel of Fun, offering $5 spins with prizes donated by local businesses and used musical items signed by The Chitlins; a Mystery Wine Pull, with wine bottles hidden in $20 hand-crafted bags made by BBM’s Health & Wellness Navigator, Terra; and Stay-cation Raffle donated by BBM Board Member John Oropesa, featuring a stay at the OS1515 Hotel in Ocean Springs, Miss, and a $100 gift card to Proof Bar in Ocean Springs.

Musicians with a Mission turned a night of music into a lasting change for Back Bay Mission’s programs and community. The need BBM’s services is at an all-time high. The funding from Musicians with a Mission will allow BBM to continue its mission of strengthening neighborhoods, seeking justice, and transforming lives.

Musicians on a Mission returns Sept. 24, 2026, with a new goal of $25,000.