Neighbor News
Teens get summer music jobs through Music and Youth Initiative
Grant from Bank of America creates 20 jobs for teens -- including in Waltham -- through the Music and Youth Initiative
The Music & Youth Initiative was awarded a $25,000 grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation to support the Youth Leader Program, a program that provides jobs to musically-inclined teens in underserved communities.
The grant created 20 jobs at one of 16 Music Clubhouse locations around Massachusetts this summer, including the Waltham Boys & Girls Club. Each Youth Leader, selected for his or her exceptional dedication and leadership qualities, will gain valuable work experience by teaching and mentoring at the Clubhouse.
The Music Clubhouses are dedicated spaces where young people can come together and learn. On any given afternoon one might see a small group in the studio laying down tracks, taking a group lesson, practicing or just having fun. In the evenings, the Clubhouse often becomes a performance center, hosting CD release parties and open mic nights.
Find out what's happening in Walthamfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“Just as music builds confidence and self-esteem, so do the responsibilities of a first job. We’ve combined those two experiences in our Youth Leader Program,” says Gary Eichhorn, CEO of Music & Youth. “We’re grateful to have found a partner in Bank of America. They clearly share our understanding of the tremendous power of this unique workforce opportunity.”
“The Music & Youth Initiative is helping close the opportunity gap by connecting teens with jobs that tie into something they feel passionately about -- music,” said Bob Gallery, Massachusetts president, Bank of America. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for local teens to gain valuable experience while tapping into their natural talents.”
Find out what's happening in Walthamfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
About Music & Youth Initiative
Music & Youth establishes sustainable high-quality after school contemporary music programs for underserved youth ages 10-18, through collaboration with leading Youth Development Organizations, Universities, and Corporate Partners. These programs are free (or for a minimal cost) to the participating youth. Founded in 2004, Music & Youth Initiative is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
About the Music Clubhouse Program
The Music Clubhouse is an after school contemporary music program for underserved youth, ages 10-18, and is run by leading Youth Development Organizations in Massachusetts in partnership with Music & Youth. The Clubhouses provide high quality music education and the opportunity for participants to improve social and academic skills while building self-confidence and self-esteem. More than 600 youth participate in formal music lessons every week across our 16 locations in Massachusetts.
