Ash Devine Career Fund

Hello old friends and new friends, my name is Ash Devine. As many of you know, I am a singer-songwriter, Appalachian Folk musician, humanitarian clown, theater artist and community-based activist.  

As of Fall 2017, I began school at Appalachian State University for a graduate certificate in Gerontology
(The social science of Aging).  This training will help me take my career to the next level, and ultimately, I expect to be able to help more people and simultaneously create a sustainble career for myself ! 

So far I am thoroughly enjoying the topics of study associated with Gerontology. I can assure you, Gero-studies are much more than the study of "old people". I am learning everything from policy, to chronic disease management, to psychology, care-giver support and cultural studies. I like to say the Gerontology is the study of humanity. A rigourous social science- most of my work is based in research and inquiry into the human condition followed by investigation and design of systems that can better meet the needs of the changing, and growing, population. 


In the recent years I've performed an interactive music program in nursing homes with elderly while also performing as a folk musician. Last year I successfully implimented three youth clowns to elders programs, which integrated music, humanitarian clowning and song into an intergenerational program.  I am now studying with Appalachian musical heritage carriers in WNC, who are teaching me songs and stories which I am integrating into my work. I've also been a singer-songwriter and song leader for over 15 years now, with a community activist drive. 

During 2016, I worked every day as a caregiver, landscaper, teaching artist, self managed musician, nursing home performer and house cleaner. I'm doing my best to raise the bar and yet many days I feel like I'm spinning my wheels and finding it difficult to meet my basic needs while simultaneously doing this important work in the world.


I am asking for your sponsorship and collaboration to help with tuition and living expense costs 

Application fees for Gerontology Certificate at Appalachian State : August 2017 

Thank you for making time to read this, 
I appreciate each and every one of you and all the work you do to make this world a more loving place. 

Sincerely,
 Ash Devine