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Ian Burke recently fulfilled a lifelong dream when he performed his original song and played guitar for a large crowd during a leadership meeting at YAI headquarters on April 4.
"Ian has been in our Southampton crisis stabilization home since late December. He's really focused on volunteer and employment goals, so performing for around 100 YAI directors was a great opportunity for him,” said Amanda Duva Gannon, Senior Regional Program Director in New Jersey. “It's the start of a new beginning—he's getting discharged in two weeks, and it's so good to see him getting back on track."
Using counseling, tailored interventions, and redirection strategies, staff helped Burke gain control over his behavior and build essential coping skills.
“Upon coming here, Ian displayed aggressive behaviors and non-compliance,” said Michaela McClendon, Assistant Supervisor at Southampton. “But using our interventions, he has grown to be very responsive and able to utilize coping skills and tools to support his progress.”
Music emerged as a powerful therapeutic outlet for Burke. He spent his time at the residence writing his own songs, playing guitar, and expressing himself through art.
“Music is definitely another tool he uses to cope,” McClendon added. “He's very artistic—he draws, paints, and even wants to be a tattoo artist.”
The opportunity to perform came after Gary Milchman, Chief Program Officer, visited the Southampton home and heard Burke playing guitar. Moved by Burke’s talent, Milchman invited him to perform at the upcoming directors’ meeting. The 31-year-old was overwhelmed by the offer and cried when he heard the news.
“It was 10 out of 10—amazing people. Thanks for the opportunity. I was excited to play for everyone,” Burke said. “This was my biggest performance ever.”
For the staff at Southampton, the performance was a proud moment.
“It was bittersweet seeing him get to that point,” McClendon said. “Watching his transformation from admission to confidently performing in public was incredibly rewarding.”