Finding creative hope through music

A studio where creativity meets healing 

On the fourth floor of the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center (JDC), there’s an unexpected retreat that would inspire an artist of any age. Surrounded by vibrant graffiti art, the space has everything needed to create professional-quality music: a digital audio workstation, monitors, microphones, keyboards, electric guitar, soundproofing, the works. 

The music studio is brought to you by Creative Hope Studios, an East Coast–based organization that draws on the power of hip-hop culture, music and art to engage and inspire youth. 

The organization connected with JDC staff in 2023, shortly after the pandemic. 

“We were looking for new ways for kids to express themselves and to work through what’s happened to them,” said Alyssa Benson, program manager with Hennepin County’s Field Services Client Programming division. “The studio is just one of the different therapeutic options we have at the JDC, but I think it’s one of the most innovative. I’m very proud that the county was willing to bring this forward.” 

Music as a path to purpose 

Creative Hope Studios has served more than 60 juvenile facilities to date and is now expanding into adult corrections, with two adult facilities on board. They’ve also worked with dozens of schools, though most of their focus remains on high-risk, justice-involved youth. 

“Many of these young people have never had a place to be heard without judgment,” said TJ Griffin, co-founder of Creative Hope Studios. “Through music and storytelling, they can process trauma, build confidence and discover a sense of purpose.” 

Youth feedback shows the studio’s impact: 

• “It gives me a way to tell my story and share my story with others.” 

• “When I’m sad, going to the studio helps me have positive thoughts and be in a good space.” 

• “It helps me open up about my trauma.” 

“Some of the songs are very meaningful,” said Roxane Watson, corrections institution supervisor manager at the JDC. “For example, one kid’s grandmother passed away and they were very close, so he wrote about their relationship.” 

Building skills and self-worth 

Beyond its therapeutic benefits, the studio helps youth gain technical skills in audio production, writing and communication, skills that can support future education or career paths. 

It also encourages positive behavior. Posted on the wall are the studio rules: Respect, No Profanity, Keep Clean, Show Love, Be Creative. Youth who follow the rules can write, record, mix and master their original songs and even take a copy home on a thumb drive. 

After setting up the studio, the Creative Hope team trains JDC staff to operate the equipment, use the software and lead trauma-informed sessions independently, ensuring the space continues to thrive long after setup. 

“From the start, the Hennepin County staff have been incredibly supportive, collaborative and open to new approaches,” Griffin said. “They truly care about the young people they serve.” 

Stay tuned for part three of this series, where we’ll explore another innovative program helping youth build confidence, connection and community. 

Get involved 

Are you interested in volunteering? Explore the employee volunteering page or contact Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation volunteer coordinator Lois Mineau.   

Part two of a three-part series on innovative youth programming at Hennepin County 

In this three-part series, we’re highlighting creative, community-centered programs that support Hennepin County’s justice-involved youth. This story explores how one powerful partnership is using art and music to help young people find their voice.  

In case you missed it, read part one: Puppy love: How volunteers bring opportunities to the Juvenile Detention Center