Turning Up the Tempo for Justice & Healing
Give a Beat’s Youth Music Production and DJing Program
Music possesses a remarkable ability to heal, empower, and positively impact the lives of at-promise youth. According to studies, music can be used as a therapeutic tool to enhance emotional regulation in youth, helping them manage their emotions, alleviating stress and boosting self confidence.
“This program is giving me a chance I never thought I could have. I feel like people really believe in me.”
- Nina Face, 14 years old
Making Music with a Mission
Since 2015, Give a Beat, has been dedicated to empowering youth from underserved communities, delivering music production and DJ programs that provide a positive emotional outlet and essential life skills. Through collaborations with various organizations like Arts for Healing & Justice Network, Jail Guitar Doors, Street Poets, LA County Parks & Recreation, and the California Arts Council, Give a Beat has been instrumental in creating pathways towards social equity for all youth. At the heart of our mission is the belief there is potential in every young person.
“Approximately 700,000 children are arrested every year in the United States…We must invest in the potential of our underserved youth and provide them with the tools they need to succeed, rather than pushing them into a cycle of incarceration.”
- Cory Booker, United States Senator for Youth Justice Action Month
Inspiring Change with Intention
In our Youth Music Production & DJ Program, we are dedicated to redirecting lives and keeping kids out of the system. One powerful example is this inspirational experience by Ray (name changed for privacy). Ray initially found himself on the brink of dropping out of school but had an incredibly transformative journey upon joining Give a Beat’s Youth Music Production Program.
When Ray entered the program, they were searching for direction and struggling to find their place within their community. As Ray shared with us: “I was planning on dropping out of school.” But by the end of our class.. he stated that this class was his “most favorite class he’s ever been a part of.” These words echo the profound impact that music production and DJing had on Ray’s life.
The inclusive environment cultivated by Give a Beat further allowed Ray to tap into their creative talents while fostering feelings of self-worth and resilience against systemic injustices faced by many youth in underserved communities. Our trauma-informed curriculum creates a safe space where healing could take place while simultaneously imparting intrapersonal life skills, such as self-awareness, mindfulness, motivation, empathy, and collaboration.
Through our programming, youth not only rediscover their passion for music but also develop crucial technical skills and basic business knowledge applicable to various creative career paths. By receiving guidance from dedicated Teaching Artists and camaraderie with like-minded peers, Ray found inspiration to continue pursuing education beyond what they thought possible. We take great pride in the fact that after participating in this class, this student is now motivated to continue their education.
Redirecting Lives Through Rhythm
Youth of all ages need an outlet for self-expression as part of their development, making music an important aspect of their lives. The impact of our programming on students like Ray demonstrates the importance of believing in their potential and providing them with resources that encourage them to overcome obstacles. Give a Beat empowers youth by giving them access to music production tools, supportive mentors, and industry networks, enabling them to navigate difficult circumstances while building self-esteem through creative expression.
“Being an at-risk youth myself, coming in and out of juvenile detentions, if I had mentors, I would have gone down a different path. Now it’s my turn to help the next generation”
- Anthony, On a New Track Graduate
Ultimately, Give a Beat’s vision aims at creating pathways towards social equity for all youths regardless of their background or circumstances. It is through programs like Youth Music Production & DJing at Give a Beat that tangible change happens; where dreams are nurtured; where futures are shaped.
Music has helped inspire Ray wings to soar above past limitations; it has also potentially opened doors that were once closed tightly shut. Their story stands as living proof that investing in youths’ creative pursuits can yield immeasurable returns - not just for individuals but also for communities as whole. Studies show that music has the power to inspire and motivate youth, igniting their passion for learning and personal growth in youth development.
Learn how this program is nurturing dreams, shaping futures, and paving the way towards social equity for all young individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. Together, let’s unlock the potential of our youth and create lasting change in our communities. Read more about the Youth Music Production and DJing Program and be inspired by the incredible stories of those whose lives have been forever transformed.
