Grant Drum Line Washington DC and New York

Grant Drum Line was founded in 2009 as an extra curriculum program to give students the opportunity to tap into their musical nature while simultaneously avoiding getting into trouble. At the time of its foundation many of the students were failing classes getting in trouble and several drummers were on probation. The students on the Drum Line live in Del Paso Height a neighborhood that is economically challenged and known for high crime, gang activity, drugs, and murder.

Despite the odds the Drum Line, has become a beacon of hope in its challenging environment. Even with facing economic hardship, crime, and the looming presence of drugs, these students have found solace, purpose, and excellence through music.

In the face of adversity, the students on the Drum Line have not only persevered but they have excelled academically, beyond any imagination maintaining an impressive 3.0 GPA. However, their journey does not end there; they have transformed their passion for music into a powerful force for change.

Since its inception the program has grown, and so too has the magnitude of exposure. The Drum Line has performed in France, London, South Africa, Japan, on Jimmy Kimmel, and Time Square. It has produced PSA videos to protect the public from covid, and literacy videos to promote reading, but like all performing art programs having enough funds to continue to do what you love is a challenge. With each opportunity to perform come financial obstacles. Coming from a low-income neighborhood doesn’t provide The Drum Line with a luxurious budget or lavish donations that other programs may receive. In order to maintain, the Drum Line relies heavily on grant writing, performing, donations, and the director often pays for expenses out of his own pocket. While the Drum Line takes pride in keeping the program afloat, sustainability can be a challenge.

Currently, the Drum Line has been invited to perform in Washington DC for the 2024 Independence Day Parade, and a Time Square performance in New York and it needs your help.

With a calculated cost of $80,000.00 to cover purchases of new uniforms, travel for 25 people (Drummers, and Chaperones), by airplane, motor coach, shipping instruments, and lodging expenses, The Drum Line needs your help to make this dream come to fruition. Sponsorships will be greatly appreciated and will not go unrecognized.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration.