You Matter Nashville

Giving Guitars with Steven and Kellee Cade

Jason and Mindy Hoover Episode 37

What happens when a Nashville country artist with 18 Grammy nominations decides to use his platform to serve homeless shelters? In this inspiring episode, meet Steven and Kellee Cade, founders of Giving Guitars—a local nonprofit that's donated over 250 guitars to shelters across 24 states and three countries.

Steven and Kellee share the powerful origin story of how a backyard performance and a God-given vision sparked a movement that's transforming lives through music. Their son Levi describes the incredible moment when Steven strums the first chord in a shelter: "You can just kind of feel the cloud of darkness over the room. And when my dad strums the first chord, it's like the shift in the mood is so fast." Shelter directors report they've never seen such joy on residents' faces.

Discover how this Nashville podcast highlights a family mission where everyone contributes their unique talents—from video production to social media to IT management. Learn about the therapeutic power of music for vulnerable populations, the strategic approach Giving Guitars takes to maximize community impact, and heartwarming stories from 155 shelter visits, including a retired pastor who spent 15 years washing the feet of homeless individuals.

Whether you're looking for volunteer opportunities in Middle Tennessee, want to support a meaningful cause, or simply need a reminder that one family's faithfulness can create ripples of hope across the nation, this conversation will inspire you to use your own gifts in service of others.

Key Takeaways:

  • How music therapy provides healing and hope in homeless shelters
  • The strategic approach to selecting shelters and creating community awareness
  • Current needs include mission vehicle funding and guitar donations
  • How to volunteer at your local shelter or support Giving Guitars' mission

External Links:


🎬 WATCH THE VIDEO
Watch all episodes on our YouTube Channel
@YouMatterNashville

💡 NOMINATE A GUEST
Know someone making an impact in the Middle Tennessee area?
Nominate Them Here

🌐 FOLLOW US
Facebook: @youmatternashville
Instagram: @youmatternashville
TikTok: @youmatternashville