A local marching band is raising money to fly to London for Band Week next year after they were the only community band in the country to be invited to the event.

On Tuesday, the band was surprised by Palm Beach County rapper ‘Vanilla Ice’ while they were practicing at Riviera Beach Preparatory Academy.

The rapper, whose real name is Robert Van Winkle, showed up for the community band members to encourage them to always follow their dreams in music.

The SOS band currently has a long way to go as they need a lot of money for the trip.

As of right now the band needs $50,000 just for a down payment, and they need to come up with the money in just a few weeks or they will not be able to go.

More than 100 students from multiple area schools participate in the SOS band, ranging in age from 5 years old all the way up to high schoolers.

“These kids are in our city. They’re representing Palm Beach. They’re our neighbors. So let’s put some money in the pot for them and send them to London and compete,” Vanilla Ice said.

To raise money for the trip, the SOS band has launched a raffle. Each ticket costs $100 and will give you the chance to win six prizes including a BMW 330i, 2023 Hyundai Venue, a VIP luxury yacht trip, golf at the Wellington Golf Club, or an 85-inch TV.

Raffle tickets are on sale through 5 p.m. on Dec. 16. To purchase a raffle ticket, click here.

“If they go to London and compete, they’re representing Palm Beach County, and that’s what it’s all about,” Vanilla Ice said. “If we can raise they money for them, it’s a big ticket.”