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Gold Award Spotlight: Community Music Café
According to 2023 data released by the US Authority on Housing, our nation is experiencing record high numbers of people living unsheltered, especially among individuals. Girl Scout Janelle took action with a Girl Scout Gold Award project to serve as an advocate while using a voice to teach others about empathy, community service, and the broader social issues surrounding homelessness. Janelle created the Community Music Café with the support of PiN Ministry, located in Virginia Beach, and aimed the program at empowering individuals experiencing homelessness.
Janelle said, “The Oceanfront area has a large community of homeless citizens who can’t afford to get on their feet by finding work, and especially not a fun night out. A lot of people in the community don’t know how to get back up onto their feet, and don’t know who to ask for help. When this gets too overwhelming, it can cause a loss of hope.”
Recognizing the power of music as a universal language and a means of connection, Janelle organized workshops where participants could explore various instruments, from guitars to keyboards, fostering a renewed sense of creativity and self-expression. Each session not only introduced attendees to the joy of making music but also served as a networking hub where local organizations provided information about resources and opportunities for personal development. Through music, Janelle created a supportive environment that not only enriched lives but also inspired hope.
“Each winter, the churches around Virginia Beach hold ‘Winter Shelter’ where the homeless can come spend the night and eat a warm meal,” Janelle shared. “PiN Ministry is in charge of Winter Shelter and the director has agreed to hold the Community Music Café during the future Winter Shelter seasons.”
Through this program, Janelle created a supportive environment that will continue to inspire hope for years to come.
Congratulations, Janelle!
