JANESVILLE, Wis. -- This weekend, the first-ever Wisconsin Youth Gospelfest in Janesville is attracting singers from across southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

Everyone involved in the competition is excited but said the event is about more than just who wins and loses. The goals of the Gospelfest, according to organizer Will Rinehart, are firm ones.

"That would be to bring out the best in the youth," said Rinehart. "And then to bring in major players in the industry, to actually have them come in and judge. To help the youth in their future and whatever dreams they may have."

During this weekend's event, a four-judge panel is evaluating the competition, a nod to the popularity of "American Idol."

Each of the judges has an extensive history in the entertainment industry, and the winner could get a shot beyond the weekend's competition.

"People always look to New York or Los Angeles, but it's in between where it's all happening," said judge Stuart Alan Love. "There's groups that can sell 30,000 units via downloads or even hard units just out of Atlanta or Chicago."

The Gospelfest reinforces a positive message of faith and community, a message emphasized by all the contestants hoping to finish the weekend on top.

"I want to win, but the thing about it is just having fun and praising God. That's all," said Beloit singer Ishya Harris.

Added Beloit performer Sharome Crawford, "I should give everybody a good show. Everybody wants to win, but it's bigger than that. It's bigger than music. It's for a better way of life, you know?"

And organizer Rinehart said, "This is something just to get them on the right track and keep them focused doing something other than hanging out on the street corners."

Finals for the Wisconsin Youth Gospelfest are scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 15, at 4 p.m. at the Janesville Performing Arts Center at 408 S Main St. in Janesville.

For more information, call 608-758-0297.