The journey of recovering from trauma can begin with song, dance, drumming, beat-boxing, and composing in remote Alaskan villages. This project fund supports the work of artists such as Mike Stevens, an internationally acclaimed harmonica virtuoso, who has been visiting remote sites in Canada, Interior Alaska, and the YK Delta since 2013. Through motivational talks and engaging harmonica lessons, Stevens inspires indigenous youth to express their feelings in healthy ways.
Stevens works with teachers and elders to provide students with an experience that aligns with their local surroundings and educational focus in a safe and nurturing environment. Students work individually and in teams to create stories and musical works that give them strength and inspiration. The Healing Through Music and Dance Fund will support the annual costs of Stevens’ and other artists’ outreach travel to remote communities in Alaska each year. Learn more about Stevens and his work at www.mikestevensmusic.com.
Using the arts to create connectedness, Healing Through Music & Dance (HTM&D) provides workshops and videos in rural Alaskan communities. The program features Canadian artist Harmonica Man Mike Stevens, who specializes in using the arts to connect with individuals who are struggling with depression or who have experienced trauma or other life challenges. Stevens is the founder of ArtsCan Circle, leading award-winning programs in Canadian villages for more than 20 years.
Communities served as of July 1, 2022: Fairbanks (16 times), Nenana (8 ), Arctic Village (4), Venetie, Ruby, Bethel (14), Newtok (2), Mertarvik, Akiak (5), Alakanuk, Hooper Bay (4+) , Chevak, Utqiagvik/Barrow, Huslia (2), Tanana (5+), Anderson, Galena (2), Nulato, Koyukuk, Nome, Kotzebue, Napaskiak, Anchorage, Eagle River and Rampart
Besides reducing risk factors, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) urges us to “increase factors that promote resilience or coping.” One of their recommended strategies is to “Promote connectedness through community engagement activities.” HTM&D does this as shown by past evaluations where feeling “connected” was the overwhelming response.
For more information about how to participate in this program, contact:
Terese Kaptur, Program Director,
teresekaptur@gmail.com
412-551-7281
APRIL 2020:
Mike Stevens brings together musicians and encourages youth to find strength and comfort in music during the COVID19 epidemic:
May 2019:
Write up on Mike Stevens and Marc Brown’s trip through the interior by the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner!
THANK YOU TO THE GENEROUS SPONSORS OF THIS FUND
ADDITIONAL SPONSORS INCLUDE:
Wright Air
Yute Commuter Service
