Invest in the Future of 20 New Youth Leaders!

"I’ve never been apart of something like this. Where this many people genuinely care about me and what I had to say. This retreat has taught me to trust people!"

This is Lonel, a first year participant of our Annual Retreat. Like many of our students, Lonel is constantly faced with hardships and obstacles that make it hard for him to succeed. However, Lonel has found music and rapping as a catalyst for change and an outlet for his emotions and battles. Lonel is the perfect example of the power of music and love.

One of our most immediate needs that surround our Fly By Light program, which comprises a curriculum surrounding issues of social justice,, artistic expression and peaceful communication for city youth, is health and wellness. Over 75% of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch, and in most circumstances don't have sustained access to healthy meal options. But this week because of your support we changed that norm. During our retreat we were able to give our youth a safe space where they can express themselves and receive some of the nutritional input missing from other parts of their lives

During our retreat youth come together for 50 hours of programming with the help of professional artist-mentors and facilitators to collaborate in groups. Students are provided with an environment where they can practice a variety of instruments, create visual art, and participate in workshops focused on music appreciation, recording, audio production, performance, and the social impact of music. Youth also experience team building and trust activities, environmental education, drum circles, evening bonfires, movement classes, nature immersion and group dialogue sessions around grief and trauma.

Your support aided us in providing a life changing experience to youth who need it the most- thank you!