We bring people together through the joy of making music — no experience needed, everyone belongs.
Our Mission
To enhance people’s lives through participatory music making, regardless of their situation or abilities.
Music for Everyone
The Coffeehouse Project Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) community music organization dedicated to providing arts education, with a focus on music making in the community, through classes, workshops, presentations and performances.
Programming is directed toward people living in New Jersey who, otherwise, might not have outlets for artistic expression. Populations served include children and adults with special emphasis on providing music-making opportunities for seniors and people with additional needs.
Our Values
Inclusive
We practice inclusiveness and encourage commitment to shared outcomes.
Community
Music is a means to achieve personal wellness and develop community.
Joyful
Ability levels vary but we all have the capacity to experience enthusiasm, joy and dedication.
Our Team
John Ruán Fitzpatrick
Founder, CEO & Artistic Director
John has more than twenty years of experience as an educator, a musician and a support for individuals with special needs. He earned an MA in Community Music at the Irish World Academy in Limerick, Ireland.
Rebecca (Becca) Kaian
COO & Music Leader
Becca can’t remember a time when she wasn’t singing; most recently, a 14 year stint with her local community choir gave way to singing in a rock band, learning the guitar in earnest and writing songs. Becca is a former social research scientist and current marketing manager who earned her MBA from Rutgers University and has a passion for working with start-up companies/organizations.
Our Board
Sacha Forgoston
President
Sacha is a mathematics lecturer at Rutgers University. As a teacher, she is dedicated to helping people learn to master new skills.
Lawrence Barber
Treasurer
Lawrence is an LPN and administrative assistant who has spent years studying education. He values giving back through volunteering and serves on the board of String of Pearls Animal Shelter.
Weatherly Morgan
Secretary
Weatherly helps non-profits for a living through website development and online marketing. She is a past-president and served for over ten years on the Board for the Front Royal/Warren County United Way.
You Can Help Us Help Others Check out our new Board Member Prospectus if you’re interested in being part of The Coffeehouse Project. Share this page with anyone you think might be a good fit. Thank you for your consideration!