RGNXT™ Cares - The ArTS Project
regeneration & restoration
ABOUT ArTS
Although traumatic experiences are not uncommon, the much-needed conversations about the effects of trauma and treatment have only recently moved to the forefront. Our latest ReGen Next (RGNXT) Cares campaign, The ArTS Project (r = restoration & regeneration) was birthed from a desire...no, a need...to address the potentially long-lasting ill-effects of the trauma that is being experienced by youth in our communities.
With the surge in local gun violence, along with the consequences of the global pandemic, direct and indirect exposure to trauma has increased. This exposure affects how the brain processes information, changing not only our cognitive responses (ability to think), but also our emotional responses (ability to feel). Whether music, theatre, painting, creative writing or dance, research shows that the arts help to heal the traumatized brain.
This initiative unites members of the arts, entertainment, educational, and social service communities because we all value the physical and mental health of our youth.
Music Heals
ReGen Next launched Music Heals (click for video) in collaboration with the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation (DDJF) in April 2023 as the first RGNXT Cares ArTS project. The DDJF was established in 2015 by Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson, the sons of Delores (Dee Dee) and Tito Jackson, to honor their mom who was tragically killed in 1994 as the result of an act of violence. Music Heals uses the power of love and music (listening and creating, various genres) to help those who have experienced loss/grief. The DDJF realizes that loss can be experienced in ways other than the loss of a parent, e.g. loss of a friend or relative, loss due to divorce, loss of a home, and has created content that adapts to the needs of the youth being served.
Frequency: Weekly
Duration: 8 weeks
Max # participation per group: 10 students
Ages: Youth, 12-18 yrs. (18+ must be enrolled in high school)
Final project (optional): Recital or recording session for students.
All instruments and materials needed for class will be provided. Release forms are required to be signed by parents or guardians of minors prior to participation.
Please contact us for information regarding upcoming sessions.
