Over the past few decades, society has transitioned into a culture that deems college a necessity for success in life. It seems like a bachelor’s degree is the new high school degree, which leaves those without proper access to educational and financial resources stuck in a perpetual cycle of oppression.

A Boston-based benefit concert is in its 20th year of raising money for local non-profits. Since its launch in 2000, Hot Stove Cool Music has fundraised almost $12 million for disadvantaged youth in Greater Boston.