We’re feeling pretty warm and fuzzy here at Music Forward this week. And it doesn’t have much to do with Valentine’s Day, but everything to do with a new relationship.
In January, Music Forward learned the exciting news that we were awarded a $150,000 grant from the Living Legacy Foundation, which supports organizations serving people who suffer from poverty, poor health, abuse, lack of education, and a lack of opportunities to better their lives.
This remarkable first-time support helps Music Forward increase our organizational footprint in Southern California, allowing us to double our impact and reach 4,500 youth through our music industry-focused educational and employment programs in 2019 and beyond.
But the good news doesn’t end there!
With this support, Music Forward will also be able to launch a brand new, life-changing scholarship opportunity for homeless and former foster youth attending college to study music, music business, or a related field in live entertainment.
Because this population faces unique barriers to college entry and often has to cut basic needs expenses – such as food and housing – to meet costs once they arrive, scholarships like this one can mean a world of difference for their safety and academic well-being.
We’re making musical dreams a reality come true.
The David Eugene Ballard Scholarship is named for a man who well-understood the power of music and dreams in our lives, and who encouraged his own children to prioritize their musical passions during his lifetime. It marks the fourth among Music Forward’s portfolio of scholarships offered to youth in the community, the first three of which are made possible in partnership with Live Nation Concerts.
Music Forward is proud to be partnering with the Living Legacy Foundation, and we are excited to announce that the David Eugene Ballard Scholarship application officially opens today! Applications must be submitted online and will be accepted until March 31, 2019.
Feeling like you want to show a little love of your own to Music Forward and our youth participants this Valentine’s Day? Make a donation here!
Music Forward is a national 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to transform young lives, inspire careers, and champion a more inclusive music industry. For more information about our work in the community, to apply for our scholarships, or to donate, please visit www.musicforwardfoundation.org.