Mentoring With Music
For the past two months, Jerrence Owens has been mentoring nine foster boys, ages 11-15, at Hathaway-Sycamores Child & Family Services in Altadena. Jerrence teaches a weekly music workshop that enables these abused, neglected, abandoned and orphaned boys to write and perform original music, which builds their literacy skills and confidence.
"At the start of the program, most of the youth used inappropriate language and behaviors, and they didn't work well with their peers," said Jerrence.
"By using writing, instrumental sounds and technology, now these youth are open with their thoughts and feelings, express themselves using positive words and also give positive feedback to one another."
"We get to sing and make our own songs," said Dante, age 13. Ivan, age 14 remarked "I like making beats and listening to them." Christian, age 12, said, "I wrote two songs."
The boys will get to perform at an upcoming Talent Show at their facility, in front of their staff, families and friends, and will go on an Artistic Journey with Jerrence this Saturday to the Ford Amphitheatre for a hip-hop show.
Hathaway-Sycamores staff Anthony Michael said, "This program has assisted the youth in self-esteem, self-expression and the challenges of feeling connected with the outside world."
Activities Director Jane Whitmore remarked, "The boys are learning that they are part of a team and that they each have something unique to contribute to the group."
Special thanks to the Water Buffalo Club, which has just given Create Now a generous donation to buy equipment to be used in all of our programs, including keyboards for the foster boys at Hathaway-Sycamores. We greatly appreciate their support!
Read Jerrence's Story
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