Support a Musician's Journey to Social Work

As a professional musician for 20+ years, I am intimately familiar with the difficulties of being self-employed in America. It is particularly difficult for musicians to find income sources that are sustainable and large enough to provide for a livelihood. I (and so many of my fellow musicians) have struggled with mental and physical health issues, the ability to meet basic needs, substance use, burnout, abuse in the music industry, and more. This is, in large part, why I decided to pursue an education and career in social work.

I will be completing an advanced master's degree in social work over the next year (August '24 - August '25) at Boise State University (online). Though the cost of this program is relatively inexpensive compared with other graduate degree programs, it is still a significant expense that I am unable to afford without high-interest loans that will lead to long-term debt. I know this is a common experience for so many of us. It angers me greatly that in a nation of such wealth, the cost of higher education is not funded by our government/tax dollars.

With this degree, I will be able to pursue a career as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I plan to serve and advocate for my fellow musicians and self-employed creatives (a population whose marginalization in society is largely invisible) by providing mental health counseling, facilitating support groups, advocating for policy change, and fighting for resource supports such as live/work spaces, guaranteed income programs, group health insurance, and equal access programs that address systemic oppression.

I have set this goal high enough to cover the cost of the program ($20k) and my cost of living over the year in which I will be largely unable to work ($20k). It is my hope that a benefactor(s) who cares about this population and values the work of musicians/creatives will support me by funding the full amount on their own. If this is not a possibility, I would ask for contributions from those with this thing called "disposable income". Most of my friends are musicians and I do not want to ask anything of them, especially in these financially difficult times. By supporting me on this journey, you will help me to serve and advocate for an invaluable population that is in need of more focused support from society.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and for considering contributing. Every dollar helps. I am incredibly grateful for the love and support of the community I am fortunate to be surrounded by.