Katy Rocks uses music to help troubled teens

Katy Rocks, a nonprofit organization that uses music for positive change, partnered with the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club and Krause Center to impact youth.

The group was started to help area youth pursue education, eliminate anger in a positive way and stay clear of gangs. Katy Rocks allows all individuals age 5 to adult to take music lessons and perform at various venues. According to the press release, Mary Holeman, the founder, said: "We have seen a positive difference in our students. For example: Dray, one of our music instructors, has seen kids with self-destructive patterns turn their lives around by focusing on music as a form of communication and a way to enhance their self-esteem and responsible behavior."

Katy Rocks takes place at the Aldine Westfield Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club, located at 2600 Aldine Westfield St., Houston, and the Krause Center, located at 25752 Kingsland Blvd., Katy.

The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club is committed to helping motivate young people through positive programs. According to the press release, Patrick Mouton, director of the Salvation Army's Aldine Westfield branch, stated: "Our partnership with Katy Rocks has inspired numerous disadvantaged kids to appreciate the fundamental elements of learning music. Most of our kids are excited about their weekly participation. Katy Rocks and the Salvation Army Boys and Girls club are making a tremendous difference in our urban community."

The Krause Center is a safe haven for teens who have been removed from their homes due to violence or other circumstances.
    
For more information, visit katyrocks.org. To contact Mary Holeman, email mary@katyrocks.org.