14 Aug National Back To School Prep Day: Global Arts Bringing Music Education Into the Lives of Pico-Union Students
By Bob Terry
Contributing Writer
The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that is wrong with the world. Some people see things as they are and say why; I dream things that never were and say why not.
Over the years, I have been involved with many charitable organizations as a donor, board member, and volunteer. This includes The Ebell of Los Angeles, Good Shepherd Shelter for Battered Women & Children, Get On the Bus, Homeboy Industries, Meals on Wheels, and The Leukemia Society. I recently went to work for one last charity and am thrilled to have joined Global Arts as an advisor.
Global Arts is a nonprofit organization located in the Pico-Union area of Los Angeles, compassionately serving underserved children by teaching them music. Pico-Union is a densely populated neighborhood of 42,000 people–most of whom recently came from Mexico and Central America. The average family’s annual income is $26,000 in this area. Many can barely keep a roof over their heads and food on their tables, and that was before the pandemic.
Global Arts is the only organization of its kind in the Pico-Union area and aims to contribute to educational equity by providing exceptional music classes for underserved youth. As Los Angeles Unified School District schools start today, music should be part of more students’ lives. The Global Arts learning environment is intentionally centered around music, community, and personal growth. We have created a learning environment where difference is valued and equity and inclusion are practiced.
Music’s role in a child’s education is vital in engaging them, sparking their creativity and unique voices, and improving their overall enjoyment and success in school. A vibrant, music-rich curriculum makes an immense difference in their lives. This year is our third year, and we currently serve 68 students.
Global Arts aims to contribute to educational equity by providing exceptional music classes for underserved youth. We cultivate a nurturing learning environment for youth and offer professional development for educators. The learning environment is intentionally centered around music, community, and personal growth. We have created a learning environment where difference is valued and equity and inclusion are practiced.
This year is our third year of operation, and we currently serve 68 students. Music’s role in a child’s education is critical in engaging them, sparking their creativity and unique voices, and improving their overall enjoyment and success in school. A vibrant, music-rich curriculum makes an immense difference in their lives.
We live in a time of crisis where the divide between the wealthiest and the poor has never been greater. I cannot change the world, but if we all do something to help, collectively, we can change the world for the better. Our goal is to serve hundreds of students, but we need your help and engagement. To learn more about Global Arts and donate, click here!
Let’s keep the music alive and help the children of Pico-Union.
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