Music Meets Community Service
Musician and nonprofit leader David St. Romain joined Mornings with Brian Haldane during LegisGator 2026 to discuss his work with Songs for Survivors and the growing role of music in supporting Louisiana veterans and older adults.
St. Romain said the event provided an opportunity to connect with business and community leaders while also highlighting projects making a difference across the state.
Turning Life Stories Into Songs
Songs for Survivors uses songwriting workshops to help military veterans and older adults share important experiences. Participants tell their stories, identify common themes and work with facilitators to turn those experiences into original songs.
The organization records and produces each song, then gives the finished work to participants as a lasting keepsake and a way to preserve their stories.
St. Romain said the program has served more than 300 veterans over six years and expects to reach another 150 to 200 veterans this year.
Expanding Veteran Support
The program addresses difficult experiences, including military trauma and other personal challenges. St. Romain emphasized that effective facilitators need more than songwriting skills. They must know how to listen, show empathy and create an environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their stories.
Songs for Survivors has worked with VA facilities, veterans’ homes and rehabilitation centers across Louisiana. The organization continues to expand its network of facilitators, including military veterans who also have songwriting experience.
St. Romain recently watched a new facilitator lead a workshop independently, marking an important step in the nonprofit’s growth.
Building Momentum in Louisiana
St. Romain also praised LegisGator 2026 as an opportunity for business and community leaders to build relationships and exchange ideas. As the event grows, he encouraged Louisiana leaders to participate and connect beyond their usual professional circles.
For St. Romain, both the conference and his nonprofit work share a common goal: creating meaningful connections that can lead to positive change throughout Louisiana.