Hello! My name is Michael, and this fall I am traveling to Afghanistan to volunteer teaching music to kids and adults in Kabul. I have been playing in nationally touring rock bands for the last 20 years. When I'm not on the road, I work at the local science museum here in Portland, Oregon.
This summer I heard about Sounds Studies Projects, a non-profit based in Kabul, Afghanistan. http://www.soundstudiesprojects.com/
Here is how they describe their work:
Current day Kabul has an ever growing and
evolving music and arts scene as more and more Afghan youth are being
inspired to build, explore, and contribute towards their cultural
community. The opportunities a cultural scene offers are rich in
terms of employment, education, freedom of expression, and support
towards the greater community through music and action, all resulting in
an eventual higher standard of living in a country that has been devoid
of creative expression for the last 20 years.
As part of their work, in 2011 they founded Rock School Kabul (RSK) to provide the youth of Afghanistan a
place to meet, learn music and succeed in positive ways to express and
communicate.
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I am a strong believer in the immense power of both education and music to positively change people's lives. The instructors there are doing amazing work, but there are few of them, and help is needed.
So, I am taking a leave of absence from my job and flying to Kabul this fall to volunteer as a guest instructor at the rock school. I'll also be bringing music supplies and upon my return, will be working to connect the school with other artists who may be able to help support this amazing project.
However, flight in and out are quite expensive and I am taking time off without pay to do this travel. I am asking for your help to raise $3,000 to help me make the trip, which will cover flights and basic living expenses while I'm gone. If I am lucky enough to raise more than requested, all monies over and above will go straight to the school.
Help me help support music education and a burgeoning arts scene in Kabul, Afghanistan.
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For donors, I have put together a few perks for your donations:
For $25, I'll shout your praises to all here and through my facebook.
For $50, you'll receive a personally penned thank you on a post card from Afghanistan.
For $100 or more, you'll receive a post card thank you as well as a small keepsake purchased in Afghanistan.
Sound Studies Project is promoting dialogue and peace through education, music and community involvement. You can be a part in providing mentorship and giving a voice to young artists in Afghanistan. Thank you for your time, consideration and generosity.
- Michael
P.S. You can also help by getting the word out to your friends and family. Share this on facebook, twitter, and beyond!