About the Organization
Songs of Survivors (SOS) exists to help the most at-risk children and men and women who served in the US military who are in need of healing from the past traumas. The ability that music has to heal and reframe experiences in a more positive light is what sparked into our weekly Kids music-making classes (BR Beat Lab) and Veterans workshops (SOS4Vets).
SOS is led 100% by a volunteer Board of Directors consisting of community partners from areas highlighting the mission of Songs of Survivors - Law Enforcement, Mental Health providers, Legal council, Music Publishing & Non-Profit Accounting.
Healing by reframing experiences with song writing and music creation.
To continue to help those in need of healing through the power of music.
SOS was created in 2018 by David St. Romain, music artist turned advocate. He began piloting the idea of writing songs to help people through their healing process. That year, David began his work in a Child Human Trafficking home and soon found himself conducting workshops with veterans. With the mission in hand, Songs of Survivors officially became a non-profit in November 2019. During the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, David continued the mission of SOS creating new partnerships with homeless veteran’s shelters and youth-serving organizations.
David St Romain currently serves as Executive Director. His skills and training include 30+ years and more than 10,000 musical performances with over 100 released recordings. Additional to being a survivor of childhood trauma, David is a previously Certified Facilitator of Darkness to Light’s “Stewards of Children”, “Love146” Human Child Trafficking Prevention, and ChildHelp’s “Speak Up, Be Safe” Abuse Prevention curriculums.
Board President
I met David over 15 years ago and was drawn to his music due to the passion and soul he put into it. After getting to know him I became aware of his other passion and dream for helping others who had been abused or had suffered trauma like him. He had a goal of starting a nonprofit to use music therapy to help these people. I told him I was onboard to help in any way I could and am happy that his dream is coming true. He has dedicated his life to this goal and I am glad to be a part of it.
Vice President
After working for years in law-enforcement, I’ve been on the front lines and seen first hand how much of a need there really is in Baton Rouge. I feel in my heart the work David and songs of survivors is doing can make an impact in people's lives and begin to create a new direction in the way we approach the process of healing from trauma. I’m proud to be part of this board and hope I can help make that difference.
I feel it is my duty to serve and give back to those in need. Whatever the need may be, I am blessed to be able to give my time and words of encouragement. Sometimes, all it takes is for someone to offer an ear, regardless of what their story may be. I’m also more than honored to help those who serve our country and sacrifice their lives for our freedom. Even if my involvement only touches or reaches one person, then my time was worthwhile.
I remember the day in 2018 when David and I had lunch and he told me about his idea for Songs of Survivors. He spoke with such passion and joy as he explained his vision and calling to help those who have suffered the same pain as he has. I knew from that moment that I wanted to do whatever I could to help that vision become a reality. To know the difference David is making in peoples lives through the power of music is amazing, and I’m very proud and honored to serve on this board.
I am honored to be involved in Songs for Survivors. I have the utmost respect for David St Romain and his passion for this organization. David is more than just a face, he is a zealous advocate. The positive impact of the programs will touch so many that need healing and confidence. I hope that my contributions can further advance the important work of this great alliance.
One of the greatest gifts mankind has given themselves is music. It is such a powerful tool. Everyone likes music in some way. We don't all have the opportunity to learn how it is made, so to just sit down and listen to professional to walk you through the process of how a song is developed really makes the songs on the radio sound different. So I would encourage any of my battle buddies to come and check it out; they are going to find something very fulfilling out of it.
Songs of survivors has a mission and purpose very near and dear to my heart. In addition to the ample research showing the therapeutic effects of song writing as a mode of healing emotional trauma, I can personally attest to the cathartic effect that music has had for me in my life. Songwriting is a deep meditation. It is also a process. In the end we're left with a song, which is a story, a thing of beauty distilled from this life experience we are all sharing. It is an honor and a privilege to be a part of an organization doing this work. And there is much work to be done.
Baton Rouge Area Foundation
Recast Coalition in partnership with Mayor Sharon Weston Broome
Academic Distinction Fund
Louisiana Office of Cultural Development & the Office of Lt Governor Billy Nungesser
Olin Corporation
Acadian Automation
SOS Med Supply
Bayou Apparel
Cajun Controls
Global Power & Controls
PreSonus
Ableton
PHONE:
(225) 443-9330
ADDRESS:
7809 Jefferson Hwy. Suite E3,
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
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