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The Special Angel Project

We are dedicated to assisting teens and families experiencing the tremendous problems related to alcohol and drug abuse spoken of daily in the national media. We work in a collaborative manner with local and national agencies assisting teens and families in crisis. We have been able to provide our program free of charge through the generous donations of individuals and foundations such as: The Elton John Foundation, the Friars Charitable Foundation, The Johnny Carson Foundation and others.

Many parents across America spend sleepless nights worrying about their teens, many times wondering where they are and how to help them turn in a more positive direction. Young people experiencing these high risk behaviors have a higher incidence of addiction, running away, suicide, depression, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, feelings of hopelessness and more.

Sharing the message of HOPE is what The Special Angel Project is all about. As we tell the kids: “It’s never too late to be what you might have been.” Contrary to what some may believe, kids today will listen when spoken to in the right way. Music has always been a language they understand and you’d be surprised at how much they have to say if only you will LISTEN. Music is a key that can open the door.

Via music and interactive discussion Special Angel has taught others about:

The Power of Love

Never Giving Up On Your Children

Learning From Past Struggles

Resolving Conflict in Families

Becoming Who You Were Always Meant To Be

Promoting Self-Confidence

Many people believe that music is the gateway to the soul, and they are right. Through our unique approach, utilizing music, we have witnessed individuals change and become more receptive to their ongoing therapy/programs.

Why It Works

As a group, we have performed in many places for different audiences but we all agree the work we do with young people is by far the most rewarding. To see how the music can bring out feelings and change attitudes from the time we begin to when we leave is truly magical.

Why it works

We are able to connect immediately with any and all groups through sharing our own personal experience. Singing songs about real life issues enables us to talk about changing high-risk behavior without lecturing or preaching.

We are willing to be honest with the kids about our own feelings. Because of our approach, we find the kids connect with us in a special way. It’s interesting to see how they relate to the music and to Suzanne and Kelly as mother and daughter, especially those who have not had positive relationships of their own. Through the music, these young people open up in a way they are unable to do at other times.

Our initial music director, Jon Walmsley, assembled a group of multi-talented professional musicians who have been with us for many years and have the ability to fit in with any group. They are selected for their ability to relate to kids and their commitment and belief in the mission of The Special Angel Project.

They are particularly good with tough or initially resistant groups and always win them over with their musical ability. The music is the catalyst for all of it. Music is truly a Universal language and a true healer.

There are other programs that use music with kids but we bring a unique ability to communicate on a real-world level and the kids really open up to us. Our songs relate to real life problems and feelings. We have found this works in helping kids talk and then open up in a way that helps them continue to be able to learn and grow in their respective programs. Counselors have repeatedly been amazed at our ability to get the kids to talk with us so openly.