Austin musician Ruthie Foster performs at 2017 Swan Song Serenade for the terminally ill
(Credit: Winker Withaneye)

Never underestimate the healing power of music, even if it only lasts for a brief moment. Songs can uplift our moods and move us through difficult times. The gift of music can be so powerful, it can transport us to a different place, entirely.

Music can also bring people together. It may also bring solace to friends and families of loved ones who are terminally ill. Swan Songs, a local nonprofit in Austin, is striving to accomplish just that, and the process is simpler than you might expect. [Read more…]

Teens compete in Cities in Space competition

Guest article by Sarah Snyder

When a friend told me there was an “off-world settlement contest” for kids in Austin, I asked her to repeat herself. Wouldn’t you be intrigued? She went on to explain Austin is home to the Cities in Space kids competition, along with two incredible organizations—STEAMSPACE and New Worlds—all helping lead education surrounding the future of life in space. I was introduced to Holly Melear and Amos Behana, so I could learn more.

[Read more…]

Employees of Sammy’s House have a range of skills such as occupational therapy, sign language, and speech therapy

When you step foot into Sammy’s House, the expansive building feels like an overly large daycare. But you’ll come to find that it’s much more than that. Isabel Huerta, founder and executive director, started the center as a family home child care center in November 1999. At the time, only four children were in her care.

Sammy is Huerta’s late son, who was developmentally delayed and needed plenty of help from his family. Huerta took it to heart when he passed, desiring to assist other families and their children. She developed the curriculum for what was soon to become Sammy’s House, “a special place for special children.”

[Read more…]

Credit: The Austin Center for Grief & Loss

The Austin Center for Grief & Loss was created in 2007 by founder Khris Ford. Ford’s mission was, and still is, to help Austinites navigate the overwhelming experience of grief. After the death of her own son, she was called to help others experience the transformative power of grief. [Read more…]

Credit: Minis and Friends

A little over a month ago, I stumbled upon what might be the cutest nonprofit in Austin. Minis and Friends Austin is a group that loves miniature horses and wants to share their love with the Austin community.

Founded in 2007, the organization brings trained miniature horses, no taller than 32 inches, to visit facilities like children’s hospitals, retirement communities, and centers for at-risk youth or individuals in transition.

I’m excited to share a little about Minis and Friends because its volunteers are doing great work. Besides, who doesn’t want to see photos of adorable mini horses at work? [Read more…]