Project Launch:

World Connect’s Kids to Kids Program supported the Music Matters program in 2011, a program that focused on empowering the children of Sabalo, Costa Rica to create a better world for themselves and their community through music. By forming a school band, young people in the community made lasting friendships, expressed themselves creatively, developed discipline and coordination, increased self-esteem, and had fun. Music is a universal language that emphasizes communication, creativity, and cooperation and by studying music in school, the children of Sabalo brought this important perspective to school. The children of Sabalo lacked any form of extra-curricular activity and sense of community identity and the group gave the kids a sense of belonging and gave pride, not only for the children but for the entire community. The experience gave kids a constructive influence, helping them reject the negative influences of violence and drug and alcohol abuse that are beginning to plague their community. By empowering the kids to express themselves creatively through music and the arts, Music Matters taught them that through hard work, perseverance and fun, they can create with their own hands something they can be proud of.