SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL, 2016
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
19Y
Jesse Towey inspires joy through music BY AUTUMN SCHANIL
J
esse Towey, the current Music Coordinator at New Hope Community in Loch Sheldrake, has a love for music and a passion for sharing it with others. Originally born and raised in Washington Heights and a high school graduate of Beacon High School, Towey was inspired from a young age by his family, all of whom have worked closely with individuals in education and occupational therapy. Towey’s enthusiasm for music brought him upstate to SUNY New Paltz, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Jazz Studies. Now implementing his degree at New Hope, Towey is normally busy planning and facilitating musical activities for day programs, while also creating monthly leisure activities and events for the individuals supported by New Hope. He also works closely with the supportive team of the Leisure Department to create innovative programs and encourage interdisciplinary activities in a community setting.
“I enjoy the freedom and flexibility I have here at New Hope,” said Towey, “Above all, I enjoy the satisfaction of witnessing how music can inspire such joy and excitement in the individuals we support, putting smiles on their faces and encouraging them to dance.” Towey also feels that New Hope has been a great opportunity to connect with the local community. New Hope hosts music programs in their stateof-the-art theater and hosts a monthly open mic at Nardi’s (a.k.a. Frankie and Johnny’s) in Hurleyville. New Hope even has an original band named “Bright Woods.” It is a unique multi-media rock band made up of people supported and/or employed at New Hope that creates music inspired by nature. “Performing with New Hope’s original band, Bright Woods, at the 40th anniversary party was one of my best memories,” said Towey, “and being able to take part in their genuine feeling of pride and accomplishment. “I’m in awe of the transformative and therapeutic aspects of music.”
Come shop at the
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Jesse Towey, with guitar in hand, performs with David Steingart, an individual who lives and works at New Hope Community and is also the drummer of the New Hope band “Bright Woods.”
Congratulations
Jesse Towey Thank you for bringing beautiful music to life in the hearts of so many.
LVOA-123507
Read It Again Bookstore “Very Gently Used Books” located on 63 North Street in Monticello and
The Past Perfect Bookstore
located in the former Duggan School in White Lake
For more info, prices or directions, call 794-0017
www.newhopecommunity.org
38856
We accept book donations • All proceeds go to Literacy Volunteers of Sullivan County
33578
Extremely Reasonable Prices!