Harmony for Youth

About Us

Who we are

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Our story

The Beginning

Joanne Klauke-LaBelle, founder of Harmony for Youth
Joanne Klauke-LaBelle, our founder

Harmony for Youth was founded by Joanne Klauke-LaBelle. It began one day while Joanne was teaching a music lesson and a teenage boy came in, wanting to talk. She asked him to come back in a little while, once the lesson was finished, so they could sit down together.

He never came back. Not long after, he took his own life. Joanne made herself a promise that day, that she would never turn anyone away again. She created Harmony for Youth so that every young person would have a place to go and a place to belong, where everyone is included and always welcome.

That promise is still at the heart of everything we do. Today Harmony is a registered Canadian charity, "Harmony and Music Education for Youth in Sarnia/Lambton Inc.", powered by volunteers, sponsors, and a community that shows up for its kids.

Why we exist

Our Mission

We give every young person the chance to create, perform, and grow. Our music and arts programs are completely free for local youth, so no family is ever turned away for cost. Through caring volunteers and community support, Harmony is a place where kids and teens build skills, confidence, and friendships that last.

  • Programs always free
  • 2026 OBAA Nominee
  • Chamber of Commerce Member

Life at Harmony

  • Harmony youth together on a group night.
  • A Harmony performer singing on stage.
  • Two Harmony members with fresh greens from the community garden.

Who leads us

Our Board

Harmony is guided by a dedicated volunteer board that gives their time to keep our programs running and our doors open.

  • Paul Kearney

    Paul Kearney

    President

  • Bonita Ovens-Taylor

    Bonita Ovens-Taylor

    Treasurer

  • Jeremy Hoover

    Jeremy Hoover

    Secretary

  • Olivia Clark

    Olivia Clark

    Director

  • Glenn MacKinnon

    Glenn MacKinnon

    Director

  • Cathy D'Angela

    Cathy D'Angela

    Program Director

Our supporters

Our Sponsors

Harmony's programs are made possible by generous community partners. Their support keeps our classes running and our doors open.

  • Optimist International
  • Jackpot Time
  • UNIFOR Local 914

Want to join them? Learn about sponsoring →

Get in touch

Contact Us

Questions about classes, registration, volunteering, or sponsorship? Send us a message and we'll get back to you. You can also email admin@harmonyforyouth.ca.