Somerville Homeless Coalition Benefit
Some of the top blues musicians in the area, including Paul Rishell (left), Lloyd Thayer, Bill McQuaid, Frank Morey and Zack Niman perform to benefit the Somerville Homeless Coalition. 10/12, 9 p.m. at Johnny D’s. 17 Holland St. Somerville. Cost $10

"Neighborhood Soul: The Power of Community Art" Symposium
Panelists including Boston-based artists Meredith Bergmann and David Fitcher, architechural muralist Richard Haas and City of Boston Women’s Commission Executive Director Marie Turley, to name a few, discuss the role of patrons and art in the public realm. 10/14. 10 a.m.-Noon. Boston Architectural College, Cascieri Hall 320 Newbury St. Cost: Free

Go Barefoot for Literacy
The Barefoot Books store celebrates its fifth anniversary with live music by children’s performer Fred Penner, arts and crafts with award-winning illustrator Clare Beaton and story time with professional storytellers. A portion of the weekend’s proceeds will be donated to ReadBoston to promote literacy. 10/17 Fri.- Sat. 10 a.m.- 6p.m.; Sun. 12p.m.- 5 p.m. Barefoot Books. 1771 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge. Cost: Free.

Wicked Big Pahty 2006
Celebrate your “wickedness” this Halloween with the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston. Join Boston’s young professionals for an evening of complimentary appetizers and pool, raffle prizes, a silent auction, costume contest, and DJ to support the Big Sister Association. 10/31. 10 p.m. Felt 533 Washington St. Boston. Cost: $20 in advance; $25 at door

"Art from the Heart" Show and Wine Tasting
The second annual "Art from the Heart" show and wine tasting will spotlight the artistic talents of children and adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction. All proceeds go to The Arc of the South Shore program services. 10/21 5-8 p.m. South Shore Art Center. Cohasset, Cost: $50; Corporate Sponsorships available

For other charity events, click here.