Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro recently embarked on a significant visit to West Philadelphia, spotlighting a pivotal nonprofit, Beyond the Bars, as he actively campaigned for amplified state funding crucial for initiatives dedicated to reducing gun violence across the Commonwealth. This strategic visit underscored the administration’s commitment to investing in proven solutions that foster safer communities and offer tangible opportunities for at-risk youth through comprehensive youth diversion programs.
Beyond the Bars, a transformative organization, began its journey in 2015 as an innovative music workshop designed for incarcerated youth. Conceived by Matthew Kerr and Christopher Thornton, the program rapidly evolved from its singular origin, expanding its reach dramatically. Today, it proudly operates over 55 music labs scattered throughout the city, embodying a powerful testament to its founders’ vision and the profound impact of music and mentorship.
During his tour, Governor Shapiro articulated a profound belief in the innate potential of every child. “I believe every child deserves to be able to make music and play sports and most importantly, every child deserves to dream big dreams no matter where they live, no matter what their zip code, no matter what their neighborhood looks like, they should have that freedom to be able to dream of limitless possibilities in their community,” Shapiro emphasized, connecting the program’s work directly to his administration’s broader goals for equitable opportunity and gun violence prevention.
Matthew Kerr, co-director of Beyond the Bars, shared insights into the program’s genesis, recalling how incarcerated students not only “grow and thrive with music” but also gained a deeper understanding of the “conditions and systems that they had experienced that had led them up to that point.” This holistic approach underscores the program’s commitment to addressing root causes and fostering personal growth.
Over the past decade, Beyond the Bars has meticulously transformed into a leading youth criminal diversion program. Its extensive growth now encompasses a dedicated education center in West Philadelphia and a network of dozens of music labs established in collaboration with various partners, including schools, shelters, recreation centers, and trauma centers. The organization employs a diverse team of ten professionals, each bringing expertise from education, criminal justice, music, and production, reflecting its multidisciplinary approach to community programs.
The governor’s visit allowed him to witness firsthand the vibrant atmosphere, with dozens of students practicing their instruments and vocals. Among them was 20-year-old Xavis Fauntleroy, an aspiring music producer and songwriter, who shared her journey and the program’s influence. Fauntleroy highlighted the connection between music and healing, noting her pursuit of psychology as a “backup” in the competitive music industry, showcasing the program’s role in nurturing well-rounded individuals.
A significant portion of Beyond the Bars’ expansion has been fueled by substantial Pennsylvania funding, specifically over $500,000 in grants from the state’s Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) program, established in 2018. Since Governor Shapiro assumed office, this program has allocated an impressive $85 million in grants to more than 130 projects statewide, with $42 million directed to 64 initiatives in Philadelphia alone. The governor’s proposed 2025–26 budget seeks to further bolster these efforts with an additional $10 million for the VIP program, bringing the total to $55 million, alongside a further $10 million for the BOOST after-school program.
The event also drew the attendance of several key local and state officials, including State Representative Amen Brown, a West Philadelphia native, who toured the facility alongside Governor Shapiro. Brown lauded the program, stating, “The energy that you guys have created in this space is unmatched. We need to stand together more than ever to protect our youth no matter what you believe in, no matter what side of the aisle we’re on.”
The enduring impact of Beyond the Bars resonated through student testimonials, with one participant expressing, “From the start, I was walking into a safe space and loving environment, surrounded by mentors and peers who share similar interests.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the program’s success: fostering an environment where youth can thrive, develop vital life skills, and ultimately contribute positively to their communities, inspiring future careers in fields like social work.
