We’re grateful to share that Dr. Elliot Gann, Founder and Executive Director of Today’s Future Sound, has been selected to receive the Surprize, a recognition that supports individuals doing meaningful, community-rooted work across New York City.

Dr. Gann was nominated by J.C., whose own work and values closely align with the spirit of the Surprize—centering care, creativity, and impact that extends beyond any one person.

This recognition reflects years of collective effort using Hip Hop and Therapeutic Beat Making to support young people in schools, community programs, and juvenile justice settings. The work has always been collaborative—shaped by students, educators, clinicians, artists, and partner organizations who believe in culture as a tool for healing, regulation, and empowerment.

Today’s Future Sound remains committed to offering workshops and programming that are accessible, trauma-informed, and grounded in real relationships. Much of this work continues to be offered pro bono or at reduced cost, particularly within alternative-to-incarceration and school-based settings.

We receive this recognition with gratitude—and with a renewed sense of responsibility to keep showing up, listening, and building alongside the communities we serve.

Thank you to J.C., to the Surprize community, and to everyone who has been part of this journey.