Jam Sessions - Carlsbad

Be a mentor to 1-4 teen/young adults with special needs, such as autism, while they learn to play music. Volunteer mentors provide encouragement, model expected group behaviors, give compliments, give directions, and help their mentees build friendships and practice social skills. Mentors are important because they help the students with special needs gain social skills (e.g. learning how to make eye contact, have a conversation, have self control, etc.) that are essential to living a meaningful life in their community.

No matter your level of musical experience, you'll have a great time shaking a shaker, playing a drum, signing along and much more. Before and after the group, volunteers assist with set up (unloading musical equipment, setting up chairs, music stands, music books, etc.), process with the volunteer team after (complete a journal entry about experience and rate mentee responses), and tear down (load equipment).

Project Requirements & Important Notes

• Physical Ability: Ability to lift and move musical equipment, chairs, etc. (They are able to accommodate weight restrictions)

• Note: We need volunteers with a great attitude, who are patient and comfortable working with their mentees one-on-one.

About Banding Together

Founded in 2009, Banding Together’s mission is to bring music opportunities to individuals with special needs in our community. This is accomplished through key objectives that include providing: music therapy scholarships, free Jam Session programs, mentorships, and instruments.