A grant from Thunderbirds Charities is providing support to the Music Therapy Rock Band program through Higher Octave Healing. Established in 2013, the Rock Band program provides opportunities for teens and adults with developmental disabilities to learn to play in a band while gaining valueable life skills. The program currently consists of 12 bands and 54 participants, with growth expected later this year. Each week, the bands meet to rehearse, guided by a Board-Certified Music Therapist and skilled volunteers,learning to play guitars, drums, and keyboards and preparing to perform. Each year, every band participates in at least one live public performance and one music video production project to share with their community. Funding supports program staffing, facility expenses, and equipment and supply upgrades. In 2025, Higher Octave Healing transitioned into a new facility. Funding from Thunderbirds Charities was key in helping the organization outfit the new program space with instruments and materials needed to help band members thrive. The new space and support will provide new opportunities for recording and music production for years to come.
“Participating in Rock Band is an important opportunity for band members to learn valuable life skills while expressing themselves artistically and connecting with their community,” says Higher Octave CEO Shelbe White. “By prioritizing public performance, the program provides unique opportunities for performers with disabilities to share their talents with a wider community and receive the true ‘Rock Star Treatment.’ The support of Thunderbirds Charities gives us the resources to make those experiences truly unforgettable for performers and audiences alike.”
This grant is part of the Fall 2024 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.