Elmont, NY – Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages welcomed the launch of the Voices of Elmont Youth Community Choir, an initiative of Elmont Union Free School District bus attendant Aisha Stevenson. Aisha saw the need for community-based activities to involve Elmont’s students in a collective musical effort. She expressed a desire to bring the youth of Elmont together to have a space to express themselves through singing and collaboration. The group has enjoyed early success since its inaugural meet and greet in April, with children from all over Elmont signing up to participate.

During one of Aisha’s “Talk Time” sessions each month, the program also takes time to discuss issues important to the students, including bullying. These conversations with the choir allow for personal development beyond the musical education the students receive. Aisha’s goal is to have the children of Elmont grow up to be well-rounded members of the community.

By May, the choir held its first full rehearsal and pizza party. The choir then put on a parade in June from Hendrickson Park to the Elmont Target, where even more youth in the community signed up to join. In August, they held their “Dreams over Doubt” luncheon, organized by parents and supported by a local Elmont restaurant, BarBiz, which donated the food for the occasion. The support from the Elmont community has been overwhelming in this endeavor. Starting with 12 members, the Voices of Elmont choir now has nearly 50. Aisha hopes to grow the choir to 100 members in the near future. She encourages all interested Elmont youth to sign up. Rehearsals are held regularly, with lunch provided after each session. Parents are encouraged to contact Mrs. Aisha by emailing godssongbird76@aol.com for more information.

“The Voices of Elmont Youth Community Choir demonstrates how our community can come together to support our young people and give them a safe space to immerse themselves in the arts,” said Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages. “Mrs. Aisha is an extraordinary community member who has been a champion for our kids, ensuring that they have opportunities after school to take part in an effort that is larger than themselves. I look forward to seeing all the participants showcase their talents and I encourage all interested youth to reach out to Mrs. Aisha and join!”

Aisha Stevenson explained the community initiative further: "Elmont is a wonderful community with incredible people. Our kids deserve a place where they can join with their friends to sing and be themselves, which is why I started the Voices of Elmont Youth Community Choir. The support from the community has been remarkable, and I look forward to seeing this program develop further. I encourage all interested young people and their parents to reach out and sign up for an enriching experience making music right here in Elmont!"