Help Our Cause

  Why do we need a bus? 

In recent times, many after-school, summer, and senior activities have been canceled due to budget constraints, and social distancing measures have imposed capacity limitations on campus gatherings. Scientific evidence supports the positive effects of music therapy, including anxiety reduction, mood enhancement, and improved auditory and verbal memory. Rather than relying on traditional indoor spaces, the AFTH Harp Music Bus is poised to revolutionize the way we deliver small group and one-on-one harp enrichment programs by bringing them directly to students' parking lots or driveways.

The AFTH Harp Music Bus serves as a mobile music school complete with harps, music stands, comfortable seating, and a retractable stage equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. Through this innovative approach, AFTH introduces individuals of all ages to the joy of playing the harp, often for the very first time. Our need for a harp music bus is driven by the desire to expand our reach to more youth and seniors, ensuring they have access to the transformative power of music.

By implementing a mobile music program, we aim to eliminate transportation barriers that may have previously hindered access to high-quality arts enrichment and arts therapy programs. The AFTH Harp Music Bus will pave the way for greater inclusivity and accessibility, ultimately enriching the lives of countless individuals in our community.

Who does the AFTH Harp Bus serve? 

Individuals of all age groups, spanning from children and youth to seniors, will have the opportunity to participate in arts lessons. These engaging sessions will be conducted within the refurbished bus or outdoors beneath the open sunroof, where the natural surroundings provide both acoustic benefits and a source of inspiration.

Where Does the AFTH Harp Bus Go? 

The AFTH Mobile Music Bus is set to journey to a variety of locations, including schools, summer camps, community centers, senior centers, nursing homes, libraries, parks, birthday parties, and other special events across both the Greater Atlanta area and rural Georgia. Additionally, the AFTH Mobile Bus will be readily available for field trips, tours, and holiday caroling excursions.

How much does retrofitting the bus cost? 

The total cost for the retrofitting of the bus amounts to $49,500. This comprehensive expense encompasses the acquisition of the bus itself, as well as expenses related to flooring, seating, interior design, painting, lighting, amplification, a compact retractable stage, and essential preventative maintenance. Furthermore, we have a complete inventory of musical instruments, instructional materials, and music stands ready for use by the performers within the bus.

Why do we need volunteers? 

We are in search of dedicated volunteers for our weekend projects focused on transforming the interior of the bus. Tasks include installing flooring, mounting shelves, applying paint, and setting up seating arrangements. We warmly welcome individuals with skills in carpentry, electrical work, painting, crafting, and anyone eager to lend a hand for a meaningful cause!