20 Years of HAAM: Austin’s Musical Lifeline Hits a Milestone
The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians honors two decades of healthcare and community support for local artists
Austin has long been celebrated for its one-of-a-kind rhythm and offbeat charm, bringing in millions of out-of-state visitors to the heart of the Lone Star State each year. But who’s looking out for the people behind the music of the Live Music Capital of the World?
For many of Austin’s talented musicians, committing to their art comes with juggling multiple jobs just to make ends meet. Too often, performers are left without basic necessities including access to something as essential as healthcare.
That’s where The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) comes in. The idea began in 2005, when Robin and Bud Shivers, supporters of the local music scene and deeply rooted in Austin’s philanthropic community, set out to make a difference.
Keeping the Beat Strong
Through Robin’s friendships with musicians, she noticed many were struggling to navigate the healthcare system, revealing a serious gap in support. HAAM was built as a first-of-its-kind model that would work to bring together community resources, local providers and nonprofit partnerships to fill that void.
Today, HAAM continues to honor its founders’ noble efforts, marking this September as a milestone for the organization’s 20th anniversary and signature event, HAAM Day. HAAM Day is a citywide music festival that also doubles as a day-long fundraiser. The nonprofit’s mission remains just as urgent: Keep Austin’s musicians healthy, supported and on stage.
The Shivers would be proud to know their legacy lives on. What began as a community-driven initiative has since transformed how local artists access healthcare. Since 2005, HAAM has provided nearly $200 million in vital healthcare services to working musicians across Central Texas. That commitment to community continues under the leadership of Paul Scott, who joined in 2021, bringing deep experience in advocacy and a passion for helping Austin’s musicians get the care they need.
Musicians, Our Neighbors
A key part of Scott’s ongoing goals is expanding awareness of what HAAM really offers, both among musicians and the wider Austin community.
As Austin changes, so does HAAM, says Scott, “We’re evolving to make sure we’re meeting the changing healthcare landscape and to fill the gaps for working musicians.” Maintaining adaptability without compromising its core values is essential for this nonprofit, and it’s something Scott takes great pride in. “As we’ve evolved from a scrappy startup to a more structured organization, we haven’t lost our identity.”
To qualify, applicants must be working musicians or related professionals, such as music teachers and DJs, residing in one of seven Central Texas counties. Additionally, their household income must be at or below 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. For 2025, this means a single-person household earning $60,240 or less, with the threshold increasing for each additional household member. Self-employed applicants may deduct business expenses when reporting income, which broadens eligibility more than many realize.
“When people think of HAAM, they segregate musicians as a special class of people,” says Scott regarding misunderstandings about the organization. “There have been many conversations with people in the community asking why they should support a HAAM musician rather than a single mom with two kids?” And to that, Scott says, “That’s exactly who our musician is.” That’s when the lightbulb turns on.
Healthy Musicians, Stronger Austin
As HAAM marks 20 years of service, the organization is encouraging the community to get involved by supporting this year’s HAAM Day on September 23. Every contribution plays a role in sustaining Austin’s music scene.
Local partners such as The Greater Austin YMCA, Ascension Seton, CommUnityCare and Waterloo Audiology provide essential services that help HAAM members stay well and continue doing what they love. All members have access to affordable options for dental, vision, hearing, fitness, mind, body and healthcare navigation services.
There are plenty of ways to support HAAM’s mission, including volunteering, purchasing merchandise, shopping at local businesses that contribute to the cause and donating. Every effort helps ensure that Austin’s musicians are cared for. This anniversary is more than a celebration. It’s a reminder that when we lift up the artists who give Austin its sound, we help the whole city sing a little stronger.
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