Volunteers Bring Music to Those in Need

november 22, 2013

A veteran performs with MusicianCorps">MusicianCorps artist Laura Cambron on Veterans Day in 2010. (Courtesy MusicianCorps">MusicianCorps)

Welcome to American Mosaic from VOA Learning English.

I’m June Simms.

On the show today, we play music from newcomer Cassadee Pope.

We also answer a question about the state of Alaska.

But first, we tell about an organization that brings music and hope to those in need.

MusicianCorps

Americans have been volunteering to make a difference around the world through the Peace Corps for more than 50 years. A community development program for the United States began 20 years ago. Its name is AmeriCorps. And now, another volunteer effort is making a difference in people's lives ... with music. Kelly Jean Kelly has more.

Kiff Gallagher says music and public service are natural partners.

“Music and arts more broadly are underutilized as a strategy for public good and social impact. And musicians and artists specifically, given the proper training and support, can be effective community leaders and be engaged in the civic social impact movement.”

Twenty years ago, Kiff Gallagher was a recent college graduate and served on the legislative team of then President Bill Clinton. As part of the team, Mr. Gallagher witnessed the creation of the community service program AmeriCorps. But at night, he performed with a popular Washington, D.C. band.