Foster Youth Write Original Songs in Henderson

Young participants collaborated with professional songwriters to turn personal experiences into music at a local event.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Singing

Gouache-painted illustration of acoustic guitars and musical shapes, reflecting the creative therapy process for foster youth. — Foster youth in Henderson collaborated with professional songwriters at the My STORY, My Song event to process personal experiences through original music therapy. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe music therapy programs are an effective way to support local foster youth?

The My STORY, My Song event at Dragon Ridge Country Club brought together youth in foster care to create and perform original music. Working alongside professional songwriters, the participants used the creative process as a form of music therapy to express their personal stories.

Why it matters

The program provides a dedicated space for creative expression, using music as a tool to help foster youth process trauma and build resilience. By facilitating collaboration with established artists, the initiative offers participants a unique platform for healing.

The event featured 2 professional songwriters who guided participants through the creative process. The collaboration resulted in a showcase performance of songs written by the youth.

The players

Share in the JOY

This nonprofit organization coordinates music therapy programs specifically designed to support the emotional well-being of youth in foster care.

Dylan Altman

He is a professional songwriter who served as a collaborator to help participants translate their life experiences into music.

Danny Myrick

He is a professional songwriter who mentored participants during the music creation process at the country club.

Jakob Todd

He is a program participant who collaborated with industry professionals to write original music during the event.

Cheyenne Paris Cruz

She is a program participant who engaged in the song creation process to express her personal narrative through music.

The details

Participants like Jakob Todd and Cheyenne Paris Cruz worked with Dylan Altman and Danny Myrick to transform their lived experiences into lyrics and melodies. Organized by the nonprofit Share in the JOY, the session focused on turning personal trauma and resilience into meaningful music.

The My STORY, My Song event occurred on October 25, 2026.

Culture Shift

This event follows the evidence-based models promoted by the American Music Therapy Association regarding the use of songwriting for trauma processing. It reflects a growing societal trend toward integrating arts-based therapy into support services for vulnerable populations.

Residents may see increased visibility for local nonprofit initiatives that use the arts to support the foster care community. The program demonstrates a replicable model for how community organizations can partner with professionals to provide specialized support.

The takeaway

Creative expression can be a vital component of healing for youth navigating the foster care system. Implementing structured songwriting sessions allows participants to process complex emotions in a supportive and collaborative environment.