May founded the CCJAM (Community Creative Jam) in 2014-2016. An open stage concept for all artistic disciplines, levels, and ages, we partnered with organizations and businesses such as North York Arts , Whole Foods Market, and Artscape to launch community arts events to connect artists and the community.
Open mics in bars are not particularly youth-friendly and there was a lack of free/low cost way for creative people to meet in a positive, supportive environment.
May started the CCJAM originally to provide a platform for their music students to perform and gain stage experience, then extended the stage to everyone. The events also included fun community artful activities and guest artists.
The CCJAM was the entrepreneurial period of May, wearing multiple hats from being an artistic director to producer to marketer to event host. We built lots of artist contacts and trust from the community. We even had media coverage!
