The Joe Kreisler Teen Shelter will get a big boost from Five for Fighting, who is singing in Scarborough at a sold-out concert to raise money for the Preble Street facility.

Five for Fighting appears at The Landing in Pine Point on Wednesday, Dec. 11, along with local favorite Amy Allen. Five for Fighting is the stage name of American singer-songwriter John Ondrasik. He is best known for his piano-based rock, and Top 40 hits "Superman (It’s Not Easy)," "100 Years," and "The Riddle."

Ondrasik was resting his voice for the show and was unable to participate in a phone interview, so he offered his thoughts on the concert via email.

TG: The concert benefits the Preble Street Teen Center. How did this connection come about?

JO: Credit to Coast 93.1 who chose Preble Street. Props to them for raising funds for such an important and worthy cause.

TG: How can music help out in the lives of teens with challenges?

JO: I’ve found in my career, music can be a great source for both fundraising and building awareness for various causes. With teens in particular, music is such a big part of their lives, a song or a message from one of their favorite artists can be crucial. It’s important to recognize that we are role models and can make a difference, both positive and negative.

TG: What/who are your musical influences?

JO: As a piano player I grew up with Billy Joel, Elton John and the great songwriters of the 70’s. Of course if I could only pick one it would stop and start with the Beatles.

TG: What is your connection to Maine?

JO: One of the best parts of my job is that I see all parts of America, and if there is a more beautiful state on a summer day than Maine, I’ve yet to find it.