There is no denying that music brings people together. Regardless of age, gender or race, music is a force that connects us all. At Room 217, music and a desire to help others is what has brought us all here. Each face of Room 217 comes from a different background, bringing their own unique stories and experiences to achieve one common goal: to help others with music, just like every person who is touched by and touches others through Room 217. In the coming weeks you will get to meet the faces of Room 217. Here’s Tanya’s story.
Meet Tanya Albis. Tanya is the Administrative Coordinator at Room 217. She comes to Room 217 with years of experience in the customer service field and Not-for-Profit sector. I asked her some questions about her life before Room 217 and how these experiences shape her role at Room 217.
Kaitlyn: How has music impacted your life?
Tanya: Music has always been there for me, the good times and the bad. When my dad passed away, I had to put together the music for his funeral and I remember the peace it gave me. This was a gift I could give him and the others that attended. I have always loved music, as a way to heal, to mourn, and a way to bring joy.
Kaitlyn: What did you do before Room 217?
Tanya: Before Room 217 I worked for the Clarington Board of Trade for eight years, doing events and membership. I also worked in the service field. My husband’s family owned a restaurant in Oshawa so I worked there as well.
Kaitlyn: What led you to join Room 217?
Tanya: I knew I was ready for a change. I knew I wanted more, wanted to be able to do more. I had been studying a new holistic way of life. I am a Reiki Master and I have studied divine healing and iridology. I also knew Kenna from a previous job. When we talked and she told me where she was working, I knew I wanted to be involved.
Kaitlyn: Is there anything else you want others to know about you?
Tanya: I’ve lived in Port Perry for 12 years, I’m married with two grown kids and a dog and a cat. I love all music (but I’m not a fan of country). I think there is nothing better than a live concert and sharing that love with everyone around you. I believe that music can bring you to the heights of your feelings – complete joy to sadness within seconds. Nothing else can do that. I put together the music for my father’s funeral 11 years ago, everything from Jump by Van Halen (his favorite at weddings) to Blackbird (our dance at my wedding), and of course an Adele song in there for a good cry. My background and work at Room 217 have made me realize that not all treatments are done by medications. Putting good things in your body, like vitamins and herbs, and good things in your brain, like music and positive affirmations, can be just as powerful.
Tanya’s story inspires me to connect with myself and to embrace the things in life that make us feel whole.
Charitable Registration #85728 5092 RR0001 • Room 217 Foundation™
Box 145 Port Perry, ON, L9L 1A2 • 844.985.0217