Modesto Sound inspires social justice advocacy through CARP podcastÂ
With the support from the KDA Creative Corps, Modesto Sound invited residents from the lowest quartile of the California Healthy Places Index to share their stories, poetry and music through its California Audio Roots Project (CARP). The podcast series amplified the voices of marginalized community members by raising awareness of social justice and community involvement.
Starting in the early summer of 2023, Modesto Sound launched its CARP segment to bring attention to the experiences of community members living in California’s Central Valleys, specifically those living in Stanislaus County. Participants shared their stories through poetry, songs and storytelling.
From left to right: Nick Bavaro, Melanie Berru and Paula McDowell. Photo courtesy of Modesto Sound
The podcast has featured guests such as Modesto’s Fourth District City Councilman Nick Bavaro, educator and advocate Melanie Berru, and Paula McDowell, who speaks about overcoming addiction.
The initiative fosters empathy and understanding by sharing stories, poems and music based on personal experiences inspiring listeners to take action toward positive change. These expressions amplify marginalized voices through produced segments available on the radio and on streaming platforms including Spotify to promote dialogue and raise awareness about systemic issues within communities and society. Additionally, they celebrate resilience and strength, highlighting the power of individuals and communities to overcome adversity and advocate for justice.
With 80 episodes spanning over four seasons, each episode shares an individual’s story on various topics that are crucial for understanding, empathy and advocacy, leading to positive societal change and promoting equity and fairness for all.
CARP showcase in May 2024. Photo courtesy of Modesto Sound.
To learn more about Modesto Sound, visit https://modestosound.org/.
About the Organization: Modesto Sound
Modesto Sound is dedicated to educating and connecting the community through artistic media. They offer job training for young people in the industry and provide live sound services for the Modesto community. They provide valuable skill development opportunities for individuals and contribute to their community’s growing cultural vibrancy and entertainment sectors.
