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Make Music Matter works in countries that have been deeply scarred by conflict, HIV/AIDS, and violence against women. Music has always helped people around the world to overcome hardship by providing comfort and consolation, and by helping them to directly address the most divisive issues facing their communities. Through our efforts, music also contributes to the prevention of violence and public health issues, and to raising awareness.

Music changes lives. Music is a tool that can address the social, and emotional needs of a population. Not only does Make Music Matter help people to deal with the trauma they’ve experienced by writing, singing, and recording songs, but we bring them together so they know they’re not alone.

Music Works. Whether it’s child soldiers, survivors of gender based violence, or victims of HIV/AIDS, music is a channel for expression for those otherwise incapable of expressing the heartache of their experience. Many studies have demonstrated the impact that this can have. Betancourt et al (2010), for example, found that particularly in the context of conflict, programmes like the MEP helped to ensure that victims received the support they needed from their communities, and enabled them to better reintegrate.

Music is a powerful educational tool. Not only is making music a starting point for educations and therapeutic conversations, it is also a versatile teaching medium. Historically, music, storytelling, and dance have all be used transmit information from one generation to the next.

Music is inclusive. Music is the cornerstone of our programming because it engages everyone. Whether a person actively participates in active music-making, or just listens, the experience is beneficial. The message of a song has an impact wherever it is heard, reaching many people beyond its creators.

Music is far-reaching. In areas where literacy rates are low, music is an effective way to inform,  and raise awareness.  When the songs our participants create play on the radio, victims’ voices reach beyond their homes to large audiences, and challenge listeners to change the world in which they live.

Music is our expertise. Make Music Matter fuses international development expertise with some of the greatest minds and talents in the music industry. Capitalizing on our strengths and building on our successes is essential to the effectiveness and sustainability of our work

Source: http://www.makemusicmatter.org/about-mmm

Picture (left to right- Darcy Ataman, CEO/Founder Make Music Matter and Amy Tung)

This month we are in Brandon, Manitoba in support of Westman Dreams for Kids Foundation, where your investment will help make a child's dream come true!

Westman Dreams for Kids has granted dreams to hundreds of children in Westman. They've had dreams that range from help with expenses, computer systems to help the kids who are unable to attend school to the ultimate dream, a trip to meet Mickey in Disney Land. To see the joy that these families feel is the most rewarding experience for everyone who is part of their Dreams family. 

Dedicated people are the driving force behind their organization and they play a very important role, supporting our families, brining joy and friendship into their lives and giving them little hope for the future. 

Together we can sustain this chain of chain, empower our community, and change lives! Mark our calendars and join us on September 16, 2018 at Embark Fitness 365 from 9-11am for an inspiring morning.

We hope to raise $2000 to fulfill dreams!

The Founder of Turning Pages,  Janelle Curtis and I knew each other from going to middle school together, but didn't reconnect until recently. We would see each other here and there, but it would always be small talk. You know, the typical stuff. 

One day we decided to catch up and met up at the Starbucks on Kenaston. So we got our drink, sat down, and began to chat. Janelle told me that Turning Pages was in memory of her mother, Cathy Curtis. 

By 2041, older adults will have the highest rate of mental illness in Canada. As this population grows so too will the need for mental health services (Mental Health Commission of Canada). 

Turning Pages is a 6-week Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Program with a Mindfulness Program that provides education, meaningful connections, community resources, and opportunities for skill building.  The program is offered to adults between the ages of 50-70 and struggling with transitions such as retirement, caregiving, or loss.

After being behind the scenes and preparing for this program for 2 years, Janelle finally launched Turning Pages in February 2018. Throughout this time, she had put in a lot of fundraising initiatives to help sustain this program because it is 100% funded through fundraising. 

Our Pop-Up event is on August 19 at Lululemon Outlet from 9:30-11am. Tickets are  available at www.iamloveproject.ca

This is only the beginning of our collaboration. Stay tuned for February 2019, we're celebrating their anniversary!

Every month, we support a different local charity, those who is making an impact within Manitoba!

In July, the I AM LOVE PROJECT is partnering with the Women's Health Clinic as their charity. They are a feminist non-profit community health clinic providing various services such as birthing and parenting support, counselling, eating disorder prevention and recovery, and health education. 

Because of our Founder, Amy Tung's lived experience as an Asian woman and being a single mom, she knows what it’s like to fall in the cracks and how difficult it is to climb back up, especially when you can't access support and resources. She felt lost in this endless cycle of emotional and physical depletion, with no purpose and barriers everywhere she looked.

How will we support and raise awareness for the Women's Health Clinic?

Volunteers within the community will make Howlite crystal intention bracelets to remind wearers' to align with their purpose and lead with intention, using the energies emanating from the stones. In conjunction, a Pop-Up Yoga Class where they will receive all the proceeds.

Come join us for a yoga class, refreshments, prozes, and giveaways on July 15, 2018 from 8 -10 am at Wild Wing Restaurant - Pembina Hwy.

Every woman should have access to the highest standards of care.