Music Share for Seniors is a charitable organization dedicated to reducing senior social isolation through individualized music-based programs and meaningful social interaction. We provide older adults living in long-term care with music curated to their personal histories, backgrounds and preferences, in an effort to trigger memories and moments of lucidity, reconnect them with their past, and stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in memory and emotional processing. We train volunteers and placement students to facilitate one-to-one music experiences, during which they listen to and talk about music that is treasured by our senior participants.

Music Share for Seniors was founded in 2017 by Julian Powell, when he recognized that senior social isolation was a growing threat. Julian was inspired by the “Meals on Wheels'' model of providing in-person services that are tailored to the needs of vulnerable members of the community. Music Share was initially recognized by RECODE @ Ryerson and received funding to pilot the project. Since then the organization has continued to grow, and most recently has been recognized and awarded funding through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Resilient Communities Fund. 

Music Share for Seniors works hand in hand with the communities we serve, in order to make a difference in the lives of the residents it is brought to. We focus on empowering our participants, by engaging with them at their own pace, and learning about their past in an effort to provide the highest quality music experience. 

Music Share for Seniors could not fulfill our mission without the efforts and inherent caring nature of our volunteers. Music Share relies on the generosity and compassion of individuals who believe in making a difference in the lives of seniors living in LTC. Music Share has also partnered with Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), Seneca College, York University and Durham in order to provide one of a kind placement opportunities that educate students on the needs of seniors living in LTC through a meaningful and rewarding experience.

Music Share for Seniors is proud to be incubated out of the Social Venture Zone at TMU and is grateful to all of the hard working volunteers, partners, donors, and staff who have helped make Music Share what it is today! We are very excited for what the future holds, and look forward to providing our programming to as many seniors living in LTC as possible!