By Kari Reinhart;

On October 17, 2013 I went to New Orleans’ Ninth Ward, like I have many Thursdays since Hurricane Katrina.

This time was different, however.  We have been facilitating and hosting therapeutic drumming circles for the children of the Ninth Ward area for over three years.  The Ninth Ward was one of the hardest hit areas by Hurricane Katrina. Our mental health resource center events, including the therapeutic drumming circles, provide the kids with a safe place to learn and develop skills that help them on a daily basis.  The children have learned so much over the years.

Last year, we were able to raise funds through Kickstarter, an on-line funding resource.  Many supporters contributed to fund our proposal to help the children produce their own CD of drumming music.  This dream became a reality on Thursday October 17 when we took eight of the children to a recording studio. We recorded several versions of Christmas songs, both instrumental and vocal versions of holiday favorites.  It was a fun and exciting experience for the children.

The CD is currently in the production phase and will be ready and available by the holidays. Stay tuned for information on how to purchase a CD!