SWAN is a Lancaster-based music & support group for children affected by parental incarceration. The school-aged children in our music programs receive free music lessons, ensemble training, performance opportunities, and mentoring, trauma-informed counseling, and biblical instruction.
Our goal is to help every student heal, learn, succeed, and dream.
Watch Video
SWAN is a faith-inspired mission that seeks to care for vulnerable children in the spirit of James 1:27 “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction…”
Why Music
An abundance of research underscores how music improves a student’s focus, sharpens their reasoning skills, and raises IQ (intelligence quotient). Music relieves stress, improves emotional awareness, and social skills.
Why Mental Health Support
Many students carry unseen emotional burdens that impact their ability to learn, connect, and thrive. Providing mental health support creates a safe space where they can process challenges, build resilience, and develop the confidence needed to succeed.
Why Faith & Mentoring
Faith and mentoring offer students consistent encouragement, purpose, and a sense of safety and belonging. Through trusted relationships and positive role models, students gain guidance, character development, hope, and Biblical truths to help them see their value and envision a brighter future.
How the SWAN Program Works
We serve students in grades K-12 in the Lancaster, PA school district.
Students receive lessons in school buildings, music studios, community centers, and the Lancaster Youth Intervention Center.
Weekly lessons are given in either private or group settings.
Lessons are led by qualified, trauma-informed music instructors.
Certified mental health counselors lead social-emotional classes & provide one-on-one counseling
Instruments are provided for our students by community donations.
CJ arrived at SWAN carrying deep trauma, often hiding under the piano and withdrawing from others. But through music and caring mentors, he discovered a gift for rhythm.
By the end of the program, CJ stood confidently on stage, performing a drum solo for a cheering audience, an incredible transformation and a reminder of why SWAN exists.
”