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The Rotary Club of Metro NYC has identified a significant need among New York City public schools that serve newly arrived immigrant and low-income students. School leadership and educators report ongoing gaps in funding for essential resources such as academic materials, enrichment programs, student support services, and basic needs for food-insecure students. We are currently in conversation with several schools to confirm their most urgent priorities so that funds can be directed where they will have the greatest impact.
To address these needs, the club will host a community benefit concert on April 22, 2025, in New York City, with a unique and meaningful feature: the performers will be New York City public school teachers who are also musicians and singers. Their participation highlights both the talent within the school community and the shared commitment to supporting their students beyond the classroom.
Project funds from the district grant, combined with event proceeds, will be allocated to the selected public school to support its identified needs. No grant funds will be used for venue or event costs; those will be covered through ticket sales and club resources. Grant funds will go entirely toward direct support of students-potentially including academic supplies, technology, arts or after-school programming, college readiness support, or basic needs assistance.
Rotary Club member involvement will include coordinating the concert, managing ticketing and promotion, working directly with the teachers who are volunteering their musical talents, and collaborating with school administrators to confirm needs. Club members will also facilitate purchasing, delivery, and monitoring of materials or funded programs to ensure transparency and measurable impact.
Timeline:
January-March 2025: Finalize school partner and confirm specific needs.
March-April 2025: Event promotion, ticket sales, rehearsal coordination with teacher-musicians, and volunteer mobilization.
April 22, 2025: Benefit concert held in New York City.
May-June 2025: Disbursement of raised funds to the school and start of project implementation.
June-August 2025: Reporting, evaluation, and documentation for district requirements.
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