In order to expand the reach, support and recognition for the Teen Challenge program, Erin & North Metro invited Martha DeClerq and the York Harmony Chorus to join them to plan this ever-expanding event, now known as “Harmony For Hope.”

Both choruses are a part of Region #16 of the Sweet Adelines International organization. The York Harmony Chorus is practically neighbours with the Ontario Women’s Centre (geographically) and they were excited to partner with North Metro for this unique collaboration.

The women in both Choruses were thrilled to use their gift of song to honour the TCC clients on their journey. It was especially meaningful to know that music is a part of their recovery program.

So many of us are touched by addiction. Preparing for this event created a safe space and an unforeseen opportunity for all of us to share experiences that are often shrouded in silence.

Harmony for Hope was so much more than a concert. The message of love and light were woven into each song with inspiring words of hope sprinkled throughout the evening. North Metro Chorus, York Harmony Chorus, and the Teen Challenge choir all brought their own songs to the stage and collaborated on several too.

This beautiful evening was a smashing success! Despite being held on a weeknight, the room was at capacity with some of the singers standing along the sidelines.

It was an unforgettable experience – not only for those in attendance, but also for each woman in the combined chorus and especially for the women from Teen Challenge.

As Erin said,

“Beyond supporting this very important and worthy cause, there were many unexpected gifts from that evening, each of us receiving our own therapy and healing due to the courage and mission of Teen Challenge.”

This emotion-packed night gave the singers a common purpose – to use what they’ve been given for the betterment of these beautiful women.

Jacqui Baron is North Metro’s Communications Coordinator reflects on the evening:

“It was an emotional and profoundly moving evening. I was so aware of the synergy unfolding – the connection between our chorus and the Teen Challenge clients and staff – and the deep reciprocity in what we were receiving from them. The experience stripped me down to my most authentic self, where nothing else mattered but acknowledging these remarkable women and their courage to walk such difficult paths. It reminded me that we can never truly understand humanity until we see and honour the pain others carry – and that only by confronting our own struggles can we extend genuine compassion.”

For the women at TCC, they saw people in the community that stepped up and offered them help, communicating “you’re important to us”. This helps them feel seen and as valued members of the community.

“I will never ever forget what your singing group did for us. I have been struggling…After tonight, I feel so much stronger. You gave us so much… more than you know.”

“When we were singing the Benediction with you, I have never felt more surrounded by love.”

Putting this event together gave Erin, Martha, and their chorus members a tremendous amount of joy. They loved bringing people together from all walks of life and helping the women of Teen Challenge to know they are loved and supported as they intentionally and faithfully step forward in their healing. Erin considers the Harmony for Hope event one of the greatest joys of her musical career.

Attended by over 400 people, this event was the result of many creative minds coming together in service and is just the beginning of some amazing possible partnerships!