When local luthier and owner of Lichty Guitars, Jay Lichty, heard about the Have a Heart for Big Brothers Big Sisters show last winter, he considered making a heart-shaped ukulele for the silent auction.

Upon reflection, Lichty grew concerned about the sound from such an unusual-shaped instrument, and decided against the project. Instead Lichty, a former Big Brother for more than eight years, offered to donate a beautiful, hand-crafted and hand-painted uke to the cause.

So Lichty’s partner, Corrie Woods, set a plan into action. This gorgeous custom ukulele was to be auctioned in the future, with the proceeds to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters. Lichty’s one-of-a-kind instruments are played and praised by musicians far and wide, and this one was meant to be treasured also. The ukulele is now in the hands of a fortunate private collector, and Lichty Guitars is paying it forward through a major sponsorship for Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl For Kids’ Sake.