Elemental Music would not be the same without the many passionate volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to support our young musicians and our programs.
We want to recognize some of our superstar volunteers who help make our programs possible through their generosity of time, talent, and spirit…and plain old hard work!
Today, we're thrilled to introduce Kim Crawford, a longtime Elemental Music parent who has been volunteering with us since 2018. As a person deeply embedded in Santa Monica’s music education community, her volunteer work has made our programs stronger and more close-knit. And of course, she has led one of our most FUN volunteer efforts for many years now - our holiday cookie drive!
We're inspired by Kim’s selfless dedication and can't wait for you to hear her story.
Elemental Music: How did you first become involved in volunteering with Elemental Music?
Kim Crawford: I began volunteering for Elemental Music in 2018, when the Parent Task Force was established. By this time, I already had 3 children involved in Elemental Music (with another one soon to start), so I knew the importance and quality of the programs.
EM: With so many commitments in life, why did you choose to carve out time for volunteering?
KC: I make time to volunteer for Elemental Music for many reasons. I grew up in the SMMUSD music programs playing the flute and harp so I know the value of music education. Music allows children to challenge their minds and bodies to improve, it teaches focus and dedication, and it provides opportunities to collaborate with others to achieve a goal. I see EM enriching students’ development through their programs with their many talented coaches and directors, and instilling a love of music in not just the students, but their families as well. Contributing to this program ensures that the children coming into the program now have the same opportunities to grow and develop their love for music that my kids did.
EM: Could you share a memorable moment while volunteering for Elemental Music?
KC: I was able to help out in a variety of ways on the task force, but my favorite was organizing the game night we held during the pandemic. This was a memorable experience because it not only brought our community together during the height of distance learning, but also because we were fortunate to have Rich Capparela lend his wit and humor to the games (he has always been my favorite KUSC host). The other volunteer activity I really enjoy is packing cookies for our holiday thank you gifts for our host schools and classrooms.
EM: How has volunteering helped you connect with others, or build relationships within your community?
KC: When I’m not volunteering for EM, you can find me helping with the Samohi Band and Orchestra, or JAMS Theatre and Science Magnet. I also lead cookie sales for Girl Scout troops in Santa Monica. I majored in math but am a baker at heart, so my volunteer roles often combine some sort of financial work with some bake sale magic. I find that volunteering for all these organizations is not only meaningful, it brings the community together. I’ve built many relationships that overlap from one group to another. I enjoy seeing Girl Scout leaders at Academy Philharmonic concerts, or chaperoning the Samohi Band and Orchestra trip to Ireland with a former EM Parent Task Force colleague. This musical community builds strong relationships amongst the students and their families, and I’m proud to be an active part of it.
Interested in getting involved as a volunteer with our programs? Email Juanita Devis for more information!