Pittsburgh Youth Chorus Spreads Holiday Joy at AHN Wexford Hospital

By Emily King

When community partners leverage their relationship to lift the spirits of others, holiday magic is made. That’s what happened when Pittsburgh Youth Chorus visited AHN Wexford Hospital in December to show their gratitude with handmade cards and cheerful caroling. Allegheny Health Network has generously supported the nonprofit, which gives Pittsburgh area children the opportunity to participate in musical programming that facilitates community engagement, self-confidence, and artistic expression. 

In November, Pittsburgh Youth Chorus hosted a holiday kick-off event in Wexford, inviting community members to join them in caroling, holiday crafts, a cookie crawl, and holiday shopping with a variety of local vendors. The event, which took place at Pine Community Center, helped support and spread the word about PYC’s programming. Northern Connection Magazine sponsored a “Cards for a Cause” table where participants created handmade cards for AHN healthcare workers, to thank them for the vital work they do in the community.

During PYC’s visit to the Wexford Hospital, a group of a dozen young singers, from elementary school age through high school, presented the cards to employees at the hospital. Everyone from top hospital leadership to support staff was met with gratitude and joyful singing. The group was greeted by AHN Wexford President Dr. Allan Klapper and his staff, and then continued through four levels of the hospital, visiting several departments. Even some patients trickled out of their room to listen to the carolers, bringing lightness to a place that can feel heavy at times. PYC’s executive director, Nicol Wilzer said that one patient, a woman who had been the organist at her church for over fifty years, came out of her hospital room to sing with the children. Music has a way of bringing people together.

The partnership between AHN and Pittsburgh Youth Chorus is a poignant example of the good that can happen when community groups support one another. From expert medical care to the gift of music, everyone has something to bring to the table. Alongside Pittsburgh Youth Chorus, Northern Connection Magazine thanks AHN and all healthcare workers for the tireless work they do during the holidays and year-round, to keep our community healthy. For more information about Pittsburgh Youth Chorus visit www.pittsburghyouthchorus.org.