Music plays an important role in connecting people, and Jim Gaven and Key of Awesome Music bring that power into Allies’ day habilitation programs every month.
Jim Gaven, the founder and CEO of Key of Awesome Music, has a passion for music and people. Gaven took his first steps into the world of health and human services in 2010 when he became a regular volunteer at a group home through his family’s church. In the years since, Gaven has brought music to hundreds.
“I like to think of us as music missionaries,” Gaven said. Alongside a few employees, Gaven travels throughout New Jersey, visiting groups and individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Gaven’s lessons create space and time for participants to express themselves through music.
“Everyone has their own journey and story,” Gaven said. “You can see the light switch flip on, and it is very gratifying to be able to be part of that.”
In addition to creating space for safe and free expression, the lessons Gaven puts on are as much about helping participants to discover the rhythm we are all capable of honing.
“We are all more capable than we think we are,” Gaven said. “I am a firm believe that we all have rhythm inside of us.”
At Allies’ Mercer and Mt. Holly day habilitation programs, Gaven conducts large group classes. During these sessions, everyone is able to get involved to some degree. Some folks sing, while others play handheld percussion instruments. The end result is an electric class that brings the entire group together.
“Music can be such a great healer and connector,” Gaven said. “Every one of us has something we can learn from each other.”
Gaven visits the Mercer and Mt. Holly day programs on a regular basis. Upon arrival, he is greeted with enthusiasm from day program attendees as well as staff members. Before digging into the music, Gaven and folks in the class take some time to catch up.
Musical participation is loaded with benefits for everyone involved. For those who decline to participate in melody making, listening to the group can be calm or energizing. In addition, long-term effects of getting involved with and playing music can teach confidence, teamwork and collaboration.
“There is just so much that music can give us,” Gaven said.