Serving NOLA Youth Since 2009
Koats4Kids
In Harmony
Our Mission
Koats4Kids empowers system-impacted youth —including those facing incarceration, trafficking, homelessness, and substance use—through music. Offering songwriting and instrumental instruction, K4K nurtures self-expression, healing, and personal growth. What began as a coat drive concert with Ellis Marsalis now thrives as a nonprofit rooted in musical resilience.
Our Initiatives
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Coat Collection & Distribution
What began as an annual coat drive concert continues today: we collect and distribute warm coats to youth in need.
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Music Composition Class
Youth write and perform original songs, transforming lived experience into powerful self-expression and healing.
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Instrumental Music Education
Our newest initiative is hands-on lessons that build musical skills, confidence, and connection in a supportive environment.
More about us
For 15 years, Koats for Kids (FKA Dr. Ko's Coats for Kids) has unified the community through coat collections and songwriting programs for system-impacted youth, led by New Orleans cultural bearers. It's more than just about coats ; it's about fostering togetherness, as emphasized by our late co-host, Mr. Ellis Marsalis.
We've made a significant impact, collecting over 3,800 coats for underserved children!
As a newly established non- profit organization, our mission includes songwriting programs for system-impacted youth aiming to promote restorative character development and facilitate their successful transition into society. Through our artistry and dedication, we'll enhance our community's equity, diversity, beauty, and safety!
