Chances are you’ve heard of Doctors Without Borders, but did you know a similar organization of Music Therapists exists? This volunteer group offers Music Therapy project opportunities to students and professionals around the world, with a focus on the Caribbean islands in particular. Volunteers gain clinical and professional development skills, as they learn about the musical and cultural values of people across the globe. This work also widens the field of Music Therapy to serve more people in need, who would otherwise not likely receive services. Previous trips include the Cayman Islands and Athens, Greece.
In learning more about this organization I guess for me there is an appeal at this current moment in global politics to reach across the world and help a neighbor. Music is such an incredible force in the way it can unite people. And there is so much to be gained through travel, learning with humility about the musicality and values of people with very different backgrounds than myself. Unfortunately MTWOB has been put on hold the last couple years as Covid-19 has been an ongoing problem, but hopefully they will resume services sooner rather than later. When they do, sign me up!
If you would like to learn more or support this organization, visit http://www.mtwob.org/