As a world-renowned musician,Franti has been spreading his message of love, peace and social justice for decades. Canal, born without her right forearm due to amniotic band syndrome, is a voice for those who have overcome challenges.
Clarke’s Summer Camp encourages leadership and independence while building skills and life-long friendships. This year’s camp theme, “FREE TO BE” aligns with Franti and Canal’s focus on positivity and social justice. The artists played music that reflected core values and camper requests—including Franti’s hit song “The Sound of Sunshine.”
Campers were invited to participate in a question and answer session to conclude the pop-up camp activity. Franti asked campers to share the best thing about having hearing loss, as well as their greatest challenges. While connecting on a personal level, he shared that he had hearing loss in his right ear.
“A ‘meet and greet’ with Michael Franti was not part of our planned camp programming,” said Clair Troiano, Clarke Northampton’s Director of Mainstream Services and Educational Administrator of Clarke’s K-8 Program co-located at Leeds Elementary in Massachusetts. “Teachers at our camp knew the band was in town for the festival and worked hard to coordinate this incredible camp activity which was confirmed only the day prior! The kids and teachers were equally excited! The live music and honest dialogue underscored what our camp is all about – building confidence, teaching acceptance and inspiring connections.”
Among other endeavors, Franti’s Do It For the Love wish-granting nonprofit organization brings people living with life-threatening illnesses, children with severe challenges and wounded veterans to live concerts. Through the healing power of music, the organization inspires joy, hope and lasting celebratory memories.
Here’s coverage of the pop-up event from the Greenfield Recorder!
