April 06, 2010
Next
Generation School introduces Healing
harp project to pediatric patients
Next Generation School (NGS) initiated its "Healing
Harp Project" at Carle Foundation Hospital's Pediatrics Unit on April 6. Six students ages 8-13 performed a variety of
solo and harp ensemble pieces for patients and their families.
"It's more than just a performance," said Doey Gordon, CCLS,
child life coordinator of the Pediatrics Unit, Carle Foundation Hospital. "It's
one of the ways that our providers, staff and community partners work together
to create healing opportunities for the whole child - body, mind and spirit -
as well as their families."
In 2009, Carle Foundation Hospital and NGS established a
relationship so students could reach out to other children and bring the arts into
the hospital environment. The school's involvement at the hospital began with
an artwork exhibit, which was displayed in the Family Waiting and Activity Area
on the Pediatric floor.
"Next Generation School is honored to expand our arts
partnership with Carle to include the Healing Harps event," said Stasia Siena, arts
coordinator for NGS. "It inspires our students to touch lives outside of the
school building and know that their music can have a meaningful impact on other
children and their families."
The students also donated art supplies to Pediatrics, purchased with funds raised through the school's
Valentine's Day bake sale. Cakes on Walnut delivered donated cupcakes
for patients and their families to decorate.
Learn more about NGS Performing Arts at www.nextgenerationschool.com and
Carle Pediatrics at www.carle.org/pediatrics.