
Heartstrings Therapeutic Music and Art Program

What is Heartstrings?
Our Heartstrings Therapeutic Music and Art Program is a free-of-charge program offering educational, therapeutic, and experiential music and art opportunities to enrich the lives of children and families considered at-risk. We are founded on the belief that music and art are effective and empowering methods for problem-solving, and promoting growth and well-being in individuals, families, and communities.
Children and their immediate families receiving services from Children’s Hope Alliance, or children and families in the community can participate in our Heartstrings classes and services.
Meet Our Heartstrings Staff

Paula Miller
Heartstrings Program Manager
Paula received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University and loves working in pastels and pottery. She enjoys working with kids, volunteers, and staff to bring the love of the arts into young lives.

Katherine Lewis
Heartstrings Music Specialist
Katherine holds a Master of Music from Illinois State University. She specializes in vocal and instrumental music and loves working with students of all ages. Katherine’s passion for neuroarts and using music to heal, help, and inspire kids is evident in her work each day.

Barbara Cassin
Heartstrings Building Administrator
Barbara is a talented crafter and potter. She has the biggest heart and loves teaching kids to find new and creative ways to express themselves with arts and crafts.
Our Classes and Community
Student Art Gallery











Barista Program
Heartstrings hires teens considered at-risk and trains them to become baristas for our Heartstrings Germain Grounds Coffee Bar. Coffee service is free to Heartstrings families, CHA staff, volunteers, and community members. In return, teens gain transferable job skills, pro-social experience, and their first job opportunity. Currently, Heartstrings has a morning and an afterschool teen barista Monday–Thursday.
Heartstrings staff help teens apply, build a resume, interview, learn procedures, prepare all hot and cold barista drinks, and handle daily coffee bar maintenance. These skills support their future employment journey. One of the most valuable skills gained is customer service and the ability to interact with the public in a friendly, professional way. Come visit Germain Grounds at 183 Barium Springs Drive, Statesville, NC 28677!
Get Involved at Heartstrings

Volunteer
We’re always looking for caring and creative volunteers! Whether you have a passion for the arts, music, yoga, or dance, there are many ways to share your talents and make a difference within the lives of children. Please fill out the application below if you are interested in volunteering with us!

Donate Supplies
Heartstrings loves accepting donations for supplies that will directly impact the children we serve! We accept materials for our art classes, music and wellness activities, summer camps, and even basic building supplies to support our Heartstrings space. Check out our full needs list below!

Donate Financially
Your financial contributions are a powerful way to help us continue offering creative, therapeutic, and enriching experiences for the children in our program. Your generosity helps fund essential supplies, program development, and the upkeep of our Heartstrings space. Thank you for making a difference!
If you have any questions about our Heartstrings program, call or email Paula Miller at (704) 495-1272 or pkmiller@childrenshopealliance.org. Our Heartstrings building address is 183 Barium Springs Drive, Statesville, NC 28677.




