Originally developed by Carnegie Hall, the Lullaby Project invited expecting mothers to write songs for their newborn babies. Inspired by its success, the Iris Music Project and BCGS saw an opportunity to bring the same spirit of creativity and connection to a new audience, older adults.

“There’s so much that people want to share, and this gives them a concrete way to put their wisdom, life experiences and stories into music,” said Lauren Latessa, executive director and founder of the Iris Music Project. “Being part of a process that’s uniquely from your perspective is exciting for anyone, but especially for older adults.”

This year’s theme, “Being American,” was chosen in honor of the country’s 250th birthday. Residents shared their values, traditions and life experiences that have shaped their American identity. The professional musicians then helped transform these reflections into song lyrics and melodies, tailoring each tune to the resident’s chosen musical style.

For Ron Brandt, who has lived at Weinberg Villages for just over a year, the project was deeply personal.

“They told me songwriters were coming to help us write about why we’re proud to be American, and I said, yes, I would be happy to participate. I told them about my family’s history and my service in the Army. And they turned my words into a beautiful, beautiful song.”

Ron collaborated with Marcy Marxer, a professional guitarist with BCGS, to create a piece in the folk tradition—his favorite style of music.

The experience culminated in a joyful community celebration, where residents, families and friends gathered to hear the songs performed for the first time.

“They played the guitar and sang and I sang along. It made me feel good, very proud to sing in front of my friends and family,” shared Ron.

“When residents hear their song for the first time, you can feel the room shift,” said Lauren. “People see each other differently. There’s pride, joy and connection. It becomes a shared experience that continues long after the music ends.”

Sandra Pace, another participant, wrote a song that deeply moved both the musicians and the audience.

“Sandra wrote about growing up as an interracial daughter during the Civil Rights era and how difficult that was. The ending line of her song is about how we all must work together, even now, when things feel so divided, to continue the dreams of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It was an incredibly powerful and hopeful message,” said Lauren.

For all the participants and the artists, the Lullaby Project offers far more than creative entertainment, it builds meaning, connection and community.

“It’s not just about gathering to be entertained,” Lauren said. “It’s about reestablishing a sense of purpose. We’re doing something meaningful that will be celebrated and shared. Older adults are often overlooked, but programs like this remind them, and all of us, that their voices matter.”

And for Ron, that sense of purpose has been transformative.

“I really do think programs like this help older adults feel less isolated. When I came here, I wasn’t expecting much. I was so down. But the people just took me in and now I have a different attitude. I love this place.”

Through CHAI, an agency of The Associated, programs like the Lullaby Project are helping residents rediscover joy, purpose and connection through creativity. With the support of The Associated and its generous donors, older adults across our community are finding new ways to share their stories, celebrate their individuality and feel part of something larger than themselves.