Music Changes Lives & Mental Health
Oak Tree Project #8 was focused on youth mental health and sharing stories about music as a tool of healing, connection and renewal. We were proud to partner with The Awesome Music Project (AMP), a charity that explores the transformative power of music through the sharing of stories, songs, and science.
We had a great party featuring local and international talent to raise over $45,000. Thanks to our generous donors, supporters, auction bidders and great community, these funds will allow AMP to bring its Awesome Music Hour programming to every Grove Hub location in Wellington & Guelph.
Raising Money For Youth Mental Health
On April 30, 2023 the Oak Tree Project hosted an intimate evening of storytelling and music featuring acclaimed Canadian musician Alan Doyle, local artists Mikalyn and James Gordon and Valentina Sarmiento from The Grove.
The evening started when Guelph-based musician James Gordon played two songs and shared a powerful mental health story. After James, Valentina Sarmiento, Youth Wellness Coordinator from the Grove – Fergus told us a bit about the work at the Grove and then share a song that brings her joy. Playing her song and sharing an original track was talented local artist Mikalyn.
After a successful auction and mingling, we then enjoyed a pulse-pounding kitchen party thanks to Alan Doyle and his talented band. Alan shared his own happy song story and entertained us with hits from his 35-year career.
At the start of his set, Alan sang a new song by CxViolet + The New People, with contributions from local youth from The Grove Wellington Guelph. The lyrics to Until We Find the Sun advocate for support and awareness of current youth mental health and were written in collaboration with local youth, emphasizing their lived experience and finding their voice. It was a beautiful, emotional moment.
Our Partners
Oak Tree Project #8 was focused on youth mental health and sharing stories about how music is a tool of healing, connection and renewal. We partnered with The Awesome Music Project to raise over $45,000 which will allow them to bring Awesome Music Hour programming to every Grove Hub location in Wellington & Guelph.
The Awesome Music Project creates music-based programming that acts as a catalyst for conversations about mental wellness. Their work is grounded in research and encourages open discussions about mental health and how music can impact mental wellness. The Awesome Music Project is a registered Canadian charity. Learn more here.
The Grove Hubs are safe spaces where youth are empowered to take the lead in their own mental health and wellness journey. Their goal is to have every youth walk into our doors feeling like they belong. There are 5 hub sites located across Wellington and Guelph. The Grove Hubs is a registered Canadian charity. Learn more here.