Charity Case

Over the past 8 years that I have been the owner of this program, and the 10 years that I have taught Kindermusik, I have experienced many proud moments. Seeing a shy toddler go up to get his own rhythm sticks for the first time, helping an active preschooler find her singing voice, noticing a boisterous Kindergartner sitting still during listening time, starting a new private lesson program, experiencing the studio's first recital, and many more--too many to list in one sitting.

But this month will bring me my proudest moment yet, when I hang up my "business owner" hat and put on my "Executive Director" hat instead. This studio will be making the switch to being a non-profit organization and 501(c)(3) candidate, and I could not be more excited! I will gladly forfeit my rights as owner and instead relish the role as overseer of an organization that will ruthlessly seek to accomplish its goals in the greater Grand Rapids community: 1) to promote healthy growth and development in children and youth, 2) to facilitate strong, positive interpersonal relationships in families, and 3) to develop an appreciation of the fine arts (music, movement, drama, visuals) in people of all ages.

Our wonderful Board of Directors, made up entirely of volunteers, has been meeting since April 2010 under the name of Family Harmony, dreaming, evaluating, visioning and planning together. I owe them a debt of gratitude for their dedication to and vision for what this organization will grow into. One of our immediate goals is to move into a large space of our own, so that we can expand the scope of our programs. Our plans are really exciting and I cannot wait to share them with you all!

501(c)(3) status for our new organization is currently pending at the IRS. This status would classify us as tax-exempt, as well as allow donors to our program to receive a tax deduction. Both of these things will help us further our mission and accomplish our goals. Please join us in crossing our fingers that we stated our case well and that they will see the vision that we see, so that we will be able to join the ranks of charitable organizations working toward a better community in the greater Grand Rapids area. And may I be so bold as to ask you to join us in supporting our mission and our goals as we venture into this new chapter of life together! Let's put music in every family and harmony in every home! To Family Harmony!