A powerful Girl Scout Gold Award project is bringing comfort, connection, and joy to seniors living with dementia across Moore County — one song at a time.
Thanks to the work of Pinecrest High School senior Kenna Johnson, every memory care resident in Moore County now has access to personalized music therapy through the Music Is Medicine program, part of The Engaged Brains Project sponsored by The Foundation of FirstHealth.
Music Delivered to 11 Memory Care Facilities
The initiative delivered music headphones to 198 residents and 11 music players to memory care facilities throughout Southern Pines, Pinehurst, Aberdeen, and the greater Sandhills region.
Each device was loaded with custom playlists designed to match the residents’ ages and experiences — from Elvis and Motown favorites to timeless songs like “You Are My Sunshine” and “Lean on Me.”
A Gold Award Project with a Lasting Impact
The program served as Kenna Johnson’s Girl Scout Gold Award project — the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, earned by only five percent of eligible scouts. Working alongside her mother Bridget Johnson, donor Stephanie Hillard, and volunteers with The Engaged Brains Project, Kenna helped personally deliver the music equipment to memory care residents.
“This project connects two things I care deeply about: music and taking care of others,” Johnson said. “When I saw the impact music had on folks who are sometimes overlooked in our community, I felt empowered to make a change.”
How Music Helps Those Living with Dementia
The project was developed in collaboration with Dr. Karen D. Sullivan, a neuropsychologist who leads The Engaged Brains Project in Moore County. Research has consistently shown that personalized music can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance quality of life for people living with dementia.
“Music has an uncanny ability to reach people with brain change in ways that other therapies cannot,” Sullivan said. “It can unlock memories, bring moments of joy, and restore a sense of identity.”
Powerful Moments Inside Moore County Facilities
Volunteers say the impact was immediate. Some residents began humming, others started dancing, and many became emotional as familiar songs filled their ears.
One resident burst into song, singing an Elvis classic as she walked through the hallway wearing her new headphones.
“This moving experience validated to me that those living with brain change are not lost — they just need opportunities to stay engaged,” said volunteer Lori Lee.
A Community Coming Together
The year-long effort also included public showings of the award-winning documentary Alive Inside at the Moore County Senior Enrichment Center and Pinehurst United Methodist Church, helping raise awareness about the healing power of music.
Thanks to Kenna Johnson and the support of community donors, doctors, and volunteers, every memory care resident in Moore County now has a powerful new way to connect with their past — and with each other.
Contributed article/photo