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By Alicia Wanek
Eddie Coker and the Wezmore Project
Eddie Coker states, “Life simply plays out as it will,” and 2020 has shown the world just how accurate that is. However, this performer aims to prepare everyone to tackle life’s ups and downs. Eddie and his team at the Wezmore Project have created a comprehensive program that focuses on strategies specifically designed to help children confront life boldly. Their mission is “…to assist young individuals and their families in navigating the complexities of our emotional experiences using practical skills and tips presented through diverse and highly engaging media.”
The Legacy of Eddie Coker
If you raised kids in North Texas during the early 2000s, Eddie Coker might be a familiar name. Known for his entertaining songs and high-energy performances that could leave parents exhausted from just watching, he garnered a dedicated following at various festivals, shopping centers, and outdoor events. Now residing in Colorado, Eddie remains brimming with energy, often outpacing his audience, but has broadened his message with the Wezmore Project, which he describes as “Eddie Coker 4.0.”
The name Wezmore originated from a term his son coined in third grade. Due to copyright restrictions on another name intended for his nascent nonprofit, Eddie decided to rework the meaning behind Wezmore. He emphasizes to his team and audience that “there’s a WE in Wezmore” and we do not experience life in isolation; the focus is on community and collaboration—referred to as “Wezzers,” which symbolizes love, enjoyment, and contentment. To “wez” has even evolved into a verb, denoting the application of Wezmore’s tactics and tools in everyday life. Additionally, fans can purchase Wezmore merchandise through the Wezmart.
The Need for Wezmore
The goal of Wezmore is grounded in concerning statistics regarding mental health challenges faced by today’s youth. The project’s website highlights some alarming figures: approximately 157,000 youths aged 10 to 24 seek emergency medical treatment for self-inflicted injuries annually; suicide ranks as the second leading cause of death among youths in the same age group, claiming around 4,600 lives each year; and 17% of U.S. students report being bullied two to three times or more during a school semester.
Eddie has committed himself to addressing the human issues he encounters, dedicating his creativity and musical talents to assist children in coping.
Strategies for Coping
Eddie describes his approach as involving “short, joyful interruptions and engaging activities that motivate kids to focus on the present and practice mindfulness.” Through Wezmore’s social media outreach, livestreams, videos, and live concerts, kids are encouraged to “engage with the moment in a way that leads to a deeper sense of joy.” This mantra steers all their endeavors. Their methods are scientifically backed and validated by the SMU Center on Research and Evaluation. Eddie relishes the thought of a child thinking, “Wait, I have a tool for this,” whether that knowledge stems from a song, meditation, message, or visual aid for managing emotions or situations.
He encourages kids to understand that “At the center of all is a thing called choice,” reinforcing that if they can learn to recognize and “catch” a negative thought, they can maintain their control.
A Message for All Ages
The Wezmore initiative isn’t solely for younger children. As Eddie’s audiences grow older, he has discovered that framing his approach with, “This is what I do for young kids…” disarms the audience, ultimately fostering receptivity to the Wezmore message among all listeners. In essence, we can all benefit from honing more life skills to, as the organization promotes, “Lovemore, Peacemore, Joymore, Wezmore.” When the tumult of 2020 fades into history, may those skills continue to thrive.
Editor’s Note: You can support the Wezmore Project and its mission by visiting www.thewezmoreproject.org and following them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Medium.
Subscribe at https://thewezmoreproject.org/get-involved-1#contact.
WEZMORE founder Eddie Coker
WEZMORE activities
WEZMORE performances
WEZMORE impact
