What An Honor! Jeff Peterson Receives Meaningful Jefferson Award

We’re proud to share that our founder, Jeff Peterson, was awarded the Bay Area Chapter Jefferson Award for his outstanding philanthropy and support of the children at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital. He is seen here with Jack Russi, chairman of the Jefferson Award Foundation’s board of governors. The Jefferson Awards are given to unsung local…

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Holiday Cheer: How to Help Sick Children with Music Therapy

While trees are decorated and lights are hung, many children are forced to spend the holiday season in the hospital. Their complex medical needs require intensive medical care and they are unable to return home for the holidays. The Peterson Family Foundation funds music therapy programs to lift up the spirit and support the heart,…

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Why Music Therapy? Mateo’s Story

This is Mateo with our music therapy intern Kristina after their fun Music Therapy session at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital. They played with bells and his toy bear, and worked on identifying colors through play and song. Mateo’s doctor entered the room partway through the music therapy session and played along on the guitar. Mateo…

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What You Need to Know: 3 Popular Music Therapy Questions

Music therapy has been around for a very long time and there are many thoughts and opinions on the matter. With all the benefits of music therapy, especially for children, it’s imperative the general public is well-informed on the subject so they understand its importance. Keep reading for answers on common questions about music therapy,…

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The Value of Music Therapy Education and Training

When looking for the best way to support music therapy, education is an important element to further the field. The Peterson Family Foundation supports music therapy programs that provide educational opportunities for future therapists through internships and practicum. Keep reading to find out how we’re supporting the future of music therapy, and support our mission…

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Spotlight on Music Therapy and a Special Therapist

UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital just released a new video highlighting the work of one of our music therapists, Jenna Bollard MA, MT-BC. The Peterson Family Foundation created the music therapy program at UCLA Mattel in September of 2016, and provides the funds to support Jenna in her important work; since the start of the program…

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What Do Certified Music Therapists Do?

The certified music therapists we work with at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital frequently use songwriting and recording with the patients to address psychosocial goals, provide an outlet for expression and empower the child to tell their story. Our therapists facilitate songwriting and recording in patient’s rooms and also in our state of the art recording…

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Exciting Update: Details About New Music Therapy Team Members

We are excited to announce two new music therapists working with the Peterson Family Foundation, Jenny Goldhammer and Cassi Crouse! Keep reading for more details about them below. Why is music therapy important? Find out here! Meet Jenny Goldhammer! Jenny Goldhammer is now working with patients in the Medical Surgical and Transitional Care units for…

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Watch the Astonishing Healing Benefits of Music Therapy

Kids engaging in music therapy.

About the Video This video was made at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco, and highlights the works of our two amazing music therapists: Matt Logan and Brianna Negrete. Our music therapy program at UCSF Benioff San Francisco was started in October of 2013 by Oliver Jacobson, who is now our director of development for…

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