The Foundation Music School (FMS), a beloved nonprofit institution located in Fort Collins and dedicated to providing high-quality and stimulating music education, music therapy and outreach programs, is excited to announce the launch of its crowdfunding campaign, Keys to Connection: Music for Everyone. The campaign, running Oct. 15-Nov. 15, 2024, seeks to raise $45,000 to ensure the future of the organization as it works to grow its programs and impact.
A Mission Rooted in Community
Driven by Stephen Brackett (Flobots and Colorado Statewide Music Ambassador), the new FMS executive director, the “Keys to Connection” campaign reflects FMS’s core belief that music is vital to the well-being of the community and is a central part of every person’s life. Founded in 2006 and serving more than 1,325 individuals weekly, FMS provides critical outlets for students of all ages and backgrounds to explore the connectivity of music and in so doing, find their voice, harness the networks of the community and creatively explore possibilities to better understand who they may become. The unparalleled scope of FMS programs and this campaign give Fort Collins and Northern Colorado an opportunity to distinguish itself in recognizing and celebrating music as a cornerstone of society and support the well-being of the community.
Key Foundation Music School programs include family music programs supporting brain and body development through music and movement; preschool music classes; music therapy classes directed at enhancing physical, cognitive, psychological and social well-being; music camps; group and private lessons; and an extensive array of music programs in regional public schools.
“By engaging with music, kids are not just learning an instrument or perfecting a skill. They’re reclaiming a sense of control, confidence and community that was lost to them during quarantine. They’re rebuilding the connections that were torn apart, and in doing so, they’re setting the stage for a stronger, healthier future. At FMS, we’re here to make sure they don’t have to do it alone,” Brackett says. “Through the Keys to Connection campaign, we aim to ensure that no one is denied the opportunity to experience the transformative power of music.”
Why Crowdfunding?
As a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, FMS relies on community support to maintain and grow its in demand programs and provide financial aid to students in need. The $45,000 goal will support four key areas:
- Program expansion to meet growing demand.
- Research shows that music education enhances cognitive development and social/emotional skills.
- Increased scholarship opportunities.
- Nearly 20 percent of FMS students receive financial assistance, but many more families need support. The FMS Music for All Scholarship Program ensures that financial barriers don’t prevent access to music education.
- Providing high-quality instruments.
- Access to quality instruments is vital for musical growth. The FMS Play it Forward program ensures every student can learn with high-quality instruments, fostering essential life skills such as discipline and coordination.
- Expanded community outreach.
- FMS is dedicated to bringing music to underserved communities through partnerships and outreach.
How to Get Involved
The funding campaign is live on the GiveButter platform. To donate, visit givebutter.com/foundationmusicschool. Follow the campaign and stay updated on its progress through social media:
- Instagram: @foundationmusicschool
- Facebook: @Foundation Music School, Inc.