For nearly a decade, the Athens Artists Project has proudly partnered with Athens County Children’s Services and their Santa Tree Project, working together to ensure that children in care have access not just to gifts—but to opportunity, creativity, and hope.
At its heart, AAMP exists to remove barriers to the arts. We believe that creative expression is not a luxury, but a vital part of childhood development and community well-being. Music, visual art, and creative exploration build confidence, foster emotional expression, and create a sense of belonging—especially for children navigating challenging circumstances.
This year, thanks to the generosity of our donors and the continued support of local partners, that mission came to life in a powerful and personal way.
Turning Donations Into Possibility
Through the Santa Tree Project, AAMP was able to provide two complete guitar setups to children served by Athens County Children’s Services. With the help of Frank McDermott of Blue Eagle Music, one child received a full electric guitar setup, while Mira received an acoustic guitar—opening the door to learning, creativity, and self-expression.
These instruments represent far more than strings and wood. They represent time spent learning, moments of joy, a new way to process emotions, and the chance to discover a lifelong passion.
Included in the photos are Mira and her grandmother, Matt Starkey, Public Information Officer and Community Events Coordinator for Athens County Children’s Services, Frank McDermott, owner of Blue Eagle Music, and Doug “R@T” Brooks, AAMP board member. Together, they reflect what makes this partnership so special: collaboration, trust, and a shared belief in the power of the arts.
Why the Arts Matter
For children in care, stability and self-expression can be hard to come by. The arts offer a safe and empowering outlet—a way to build identity, confidence, and resilience. Whether it’s learning a few chords, writing a song, or simply holding an instrument that’s truly theirs, these experiences can leave a lasting impact.
Programs like Santa Tree remind us that when a community comes together, generosity can ripple outward in meaningful ways. One donated instrument can spark creativity, connection, and hope far beyond the moment it’s given.
Thank You for Making This Possible
None of this happens without you. Every donation, every partnership, and every shared belief in the importance of the arts helps AAMP continue this work year after year. Because of your support, children like Mira are not just receiving gifts—they’re receiving opportunity.
From all of us at the Athens Artists Project, thank you for helping us honor artists, uplift our community, and invest in the creative futures of our children.
Help Us Keep the Music Playing
Moments like this are only possible because of community generosity. When you donate to the Athens Artists Project, you help place instruments directly into the hands of children who may not otherwise have access to the arts—children who are eager to learn, create, and be heard.
Your contribution supports programs like our partnership with Athens County Children’s Services’ Santa Tree Project, ensuring that music, art, and creative opportunity remain accessible to those who need it most.
If you’re able, please consider making a donation today. Together, we can continue turning generosity into possibility—one instrument, one child, one future at a time.
👉 Donate here: https://www.artistsmemorialproject.org/donate/
