In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, Sound Affect seamlessly transitioned from song to service. On Sunday, November 26, 2023 members from the adult and teen choirs dedicated their talents and energy to give back to the community, weaving a melody of compassion and camaraderie during the post-Thanksgiving weekend.

In the heart of the bustling chaos that defines much of daily life in New Haven, Connecticut, there exists a unique sanctuary where the homeless community finds solace and strength, Chapel on the Green. A group of individuals, who have come to know the trials of life on the streets intimately, gathers to share prayers of peace. In the face of adversity, they find strength in coming together, not just as a support system but as a community bound by shared experiences and a collective hope for a brighter future.

Whether they offer the vulnerability of prayers or the rhythmic beats of drums, there are many who, despite facing the challenges of homelessness, have become a consistent and integral part of the group. The prayers uttered by this community extend beyond their personal struggles. They extend to the children of New Haven, a plea for a future free from the hardships that many of them have faced. In a world often marked by turbulence, Chapel on the Green becomes a frontline of spiritual resilience, a place where the homeless community stands in unity to bear witness to the challenges they endure daily.

The members of Sound Affect felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude to everyone at Chapel on the Green for allowing them the space to share their music of hope “Stars Shine” and gratitude, “Gratitude” written by Carol Taubl, and to sing alongside the rhythmic beats of drums. Each beat serves as a testament to the strength found within the community and an ode to the unwavering hope that resonates even in the busiest corners of the city.

The act of raising funds for laundry cards and serving the community a hot meal became an extension of the gratitude felt by the ensemble. Clean clothes and personal hygiene are often overlooked necessities, and Sound Affect's initiative acknowledges the practical needs of the community they serve. By dedicating their time and energy to provide warm sustenance, they demonstrated that the essence of Thanksgiving lies not only in acknowledging one's own blessings but also in actively working to improve the lives of others.

This initiative is a key part of what Sound Affect is all about. It not only demonstrates the power of gratitude but also showcases the potential for positive change when communities come together to uplift those in need.

The theme of giving back will continue for Sound Affect as we approach the holidays. The group performs for Columbus House in New Haven and The Linden Assisted Living & Memory Care in Woodbridge, Connecticut on December 18, 2023.