Community Forum

Volunteer Highlight - Jason Steele

Jason Steele, EFE Volunteer In early 2005, Equip for Equality's Development Department began work on a community outreach project to target young adults who do not typically know of Equip for Equality's work. The new initiative, called The Justice Music Project, will culminate in a benefit CD with tracks by various Illinois musicians and bands. The CD will be sold at several venues, including at benefit concerts throughout the Chicago-area. Proceeds from the CD and concerts will support Equip for Equality's work and mission. (see online: www.equipforequality.org/jmp/)

Equip for Equality is fortunate to have found a Chicago-area jazz musician who has volunteered his time to help manage the Justice Music Project. Jason Steele Steele, leader of the Jason Steele Ensemble, is a composer and guitarist originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado. He received his bachelor of music from Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, and has performed at such prestigious venues as the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, the New Orleans Jazz Festival, Reno Jazz Fest, and the Witchita Jazz Festival.

Jason has been teaching guitar and piano to students of varying ages for close to 10 years, striving to instill creativity by encouraging students to write their own music. Unlike most instructors, Jason makes house calls so individuals with limited mobility can develop their musical talents. Jason, who has a cousin with Down Syndrome, feels strongly about making cultural opportunities available to people with disabilities, creating a more inclusive society in which all its members can participate.

"As an instructor, I have come to appreciate the different types of abilities in people," says Jason, "and that what some people may think are disabilities or shortcomings can actually have a profoundly positive impact given the right opportunities."

In memoriam: Ida Dant

Our sympathies go to the family of Ida Dant who helped her maintain her rights and dignity in the last years of her life. Ida passed away on December 8, 2005. She was 101 years old.

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