About Us
Our Story
SongsforStrength was founded in the summer of 2023 by a teen with a passion for the arts and a desire to uplift seniors’ mental wellness. Recognizing the strength of songs during her personal mental health journey, Ria hoped to share music with residents of retirement homes. She envisioned a community where every senior in need could experience the benefits of music.
Since then, SongsforStrength continues to provide 100% free services from group sing-alongs to one-to-one sessions. Inspired by the latest research of music and psychology, our team utilizes a client-focused approach to build engaging and supportive sessions.
Recently, we launched our high school program that engages youth in seniors’ music programs. By fostering a deeper understanding of dementia and developing leadership skills in the arts, our workshops strive to spark an intergenerational movement for mental health.
Our Impact
SongsforStrength has led over 150 sessions and impacted 300+ residents across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. Meet the retirement homes who have partnered with us!
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Caroline Place Retirement Residence
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Aspira Lynde Creek Gardens
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The Village of Taunton Mills
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Cedarcroft Place Retirement Community
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Chartwell Colonial Retirement Residence
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The Court at Brooklin
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Bloom Oshawa
Partnership
SongsforStrength has been selected as a partner organization for the Youth Thrive Program under the Canada Service Corps. This program is funded by the government of Canada and aims to provide Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQI+ and youth with disabilities access to community service opportunities. Youth participate in skills development workshops and then are matched with SongsforStrength for a 120 hour volunteer placement.
Ria Chhabra (Founder and Director)
May Ajayi (Social Media Director)
Khushi Dengre (Music Care Specialist)
Talia MacDonald (High School Program Manager)
Julia Rayner-Beben (Community Outreach Consultant)
