Welcome to GrantTalk, hosted by Libby Hikind, founder and CEO of GrantWatch and author of The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO. In this engaging episode, Libby explores the world of music and its impact on education, well-being, and advocacy with Sarah Lyding, Executive Director of The Music Man Foundation.
The Music Man Legacy
The Music Man Foundation honors the legacy of Meredith Wilson, the renowned composer of The Music Man and the classic holiday song It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas. The foundation’s mission is to amplify efforts that focus on music as a tool for enduring change.
The Music Man Impact
“Music is a force for good,” says Sarah, highlighting its transformative power. For example, it boosts academic achievement in students, spurs cognitive breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s patients, and aids veterans in their healing journeys. Music’s benefits are vast and well-documented. As Libby shares, even she turns to music to spark creativity while writing.
Over the past five years, the foundation’s strategy has evolved significantly. Originally focused on Southern California, it now supports state wide and even national initiatives.
Building Authentic Relationships
The Music Man Foundation prioritizes authentic storytelling from grant applicants. Sarah explained, “We love to hear from leaders about their organization’s mission and why they do the work they do.” To ensure alignment, the foundation conducts site visits, interviews, and information sessions, creating multiple touchpoints for meaningful engagement.
The GrantWatch Connection
Posting grant opportunities on GrantWatch has been instrumental in connecting with organizations aligned with their mission. “GrantWatch helps organizations find us and understand exactly what we’re looking for,” Sarah says. This means that organizations often find their grants through GrantWatch and arrive prepared with a clear understanding of the foundation’s goals.
“We want organizations to succeed,” Sarah said. “GrantWatch helps connect us with the right applicants, and their grant writers can also use tools like GrantWriterTeam.com to enhance their applications.”
The Music Man Grants
The Music Man Foundation offers grants in three key areas:
- Meredith Wilson Awards: Announced in January, with a leadership letter due in March. These awards alternate between Southern California-focused (even years) and national (odd years).
- Strengthening the Sector Grants: Supporting advocacy and policy work, with a September deadline and a service jurisdiction spanning Los Angeles County, California statewide, or national.
- Legacy Grants: Available year-round for special projects honoring Meredith Willson’s musical legacy.
Sarah and Libby emphasize the importance of preserving arts programs in schools, which are often the first to face budget cuts. “Arts programs create the memories children carry with them throughout their lives,” Sarah notes.
Tips for Grant Applicants
Sarah offers valuable advice for organizations applying for grants:
- Do Your Research: Understand the foundation’s mission and guidelines. Review past grantees to see if your project aligns.
- Reach Out: Don’t hesitate to contact the foundation with questions. The Music Man Foundation prides itself on being approachable and accessible.
- Tell Your Story: Be authentic. Foundations value the personal stories behind your work and why your organization exists.
One Final Note
The Music Man Foundation’s work exemplifies how music can drive meaningful change. Whether it is enhancing education, advocating for arts funding, or honoring Meredith Wilson’s legacy, the foundation continues to make a profound impact.
Grant seekers can explore opportunities with The Music Man Foundation on GrantWatch and utilize tools like GrantWriterTeam to craft compelling applications. As Libby puts it, “We’re here to help everyone succeed.”
To learn more about these opportunities, visit The Music Man Foundation’s website or explore their grants on GrantWatch.com.
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