Grant Request Growing Futures Early Education center

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Growing Futures Early Education center
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: Growing Futures
Mailing Address: 8155 Santa Fe Drive
City: Overland Park
State: KS
Postal Code: 66204
Main Phone: 4026122764
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.growingfutures.org
Employer ID Number: 48-0723044
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: March 23, 2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Growing Futures Nutrition Prgram
Project Description:

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a federal USDA program that reimburses early education centers for serving nutritious meals and snacks to children in care. Reimbursement rates are tiered based on family income, with higher rates available for children from lower-income households. All meals must meet USDA nutritional guidelines, ensuring children receive a balanced mix of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy to support healthy growth and development.

While CACFP provides critical nutritional funding, it does not cover the additional costs associated with specialty diets. Children with food allergies, medical conditions such as diabetes or celiac disease, or cultural dietary needs such as halal or kosher meals require customized meal preparation that falls outside standard reimbursement. The extra costs of specialized ingredients, preparation, and staff time are not covered by the program.

For Growing Futures, addressing these gaps is essential to providing equitable, inclusive care for every child we serve. When children’s dietary needs go unmet, the consequences extend beyond nutrition — affecting their health, safety, sense of belonging, and ability to fully participate in the classroom community. No child should feel excluded at mealtime because of a food allergy, medical condition, or cultural practice.

If awarded, grant funds will be used to cover the unreimbursed costs of specialty diets, ensuring Growing Futures can safely and respectfully meet each child’s unique nutritional needs. This investment supports USDA and health and safety compliance, reduces the risk of adverse reactions, and strengthens trust with the families we serve. Most importantly, it affirms our commitment to equity — ensuring every child, regardless of dietary need, has the same opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.

Total Project Budget: $179,856.25

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $157,847.53 (CACFP Grant)

Project Duration: July 2026 – June 2027 (Fiscal Year)
Geographical Area Served: Kansas City Metro
Age Group To Be Served: Ages 0-5

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: Chris
Contact Last Name: Stibbs
Contact Title: Director of Development
Contact Phone: 402-612-2764
Contact Email: chris@growingfutures.org

Grant Request Growing Futures Early Education center

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Growing Futures Early Education center
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: Growing Futures
Mailing Address: 8155 Santa Fe Drive
City: Overland Park
State: KS
Postal Code: 66204
Main Phone: 4026122764
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.growingfutures.org
Employer ID Number: 48-0723044
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: March 23, 2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Growing Futures Nutrition Prgram
Project Description:

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a federal USDA program that reimburses early education centers for serving nutritious meals and snacks to children in care. Reimbursement rates are tiered based on family income, with higher rates available for children from lower-income households. All meals must meet USDA nutritional guidelines, ensuring children receive a balanced mix of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy to support healthy growth and development.

While CACFP provides critical nutritional funding, it does not cover the additional costs associated with specialty diets. Children with food allergies, medical conditions such as diabetes or celiac disease, or cultural dietary needs such as halal or kosher meals require customized meal preparation that falls outside standard reimbursement. The extra costs of specialized ingredients, preparation, and staff time are not covered by the program.

For Growing Futures, addressing these gaps is essential to providing equitable, inclusive care for every child we serve. When children’s dietary needs go unmet, the consequences extend beyond nutrition — affecting their health, safety, sense of belonging, and ability to fully participate in the classroom community. No child should feel excluded at mealtime because of a food allergy, medical condition, or cultural practice.

If awarded, grant funds will be used to cover the unreimbursed costs of specialty diets, ensuring Growing Futures can safely and respectfully meet each child’s unique nutritional needs. This investment supports USDA and health and safety compliance, reduces the risk of adverse reactions, and strengthens trust with the families we serve. Most importantly, it affirms our commitment to equity — ensuring every child, regardless of dietary need, has the same opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.

Total Project Budget: $179,856.25

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $157,847.53 (CACFP Grant)

Project Duration: July 2026 – June 2027 (Fiscal Year)
Geographical Area Served: Kansas City Metro
Age Group To Be Served: Ages 0-5

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: Chris
Contact Last Name: Stibbs
Contact Title: Director of Development
Contact Phone: 402-612-2764
Contact Email: chris@growingfutures.org

Grant Request San Miguel Academy of Newburgh

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: San Miguel Academy of Newburgh
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: San Miguel Program
Mailing Address: 245 Renwick Street
City: Newburgh
State: NY
Postal Code: 12550
Main Phone: 845-561-2822
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://newburghsanmiguel.org/
Employer ID Number: 20-4717497
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 3/23/26
Requested Amount: $8,000.00

Project Title: Summer Scholars Program
Project Description:

San Miguel Academy’s Summer Scholars Program provides 64 middle school students with critical academic support and a safe, structured environment during the summer months. For our students, the majority of whom enter significantly below grade level, this additional learning time is essential to closing gaps and staying on track for long-term success.

All students in grades 5–8 participate in the Summer Scholars Program, including incoming 5th graders who often arrive reading at a 2nd-grade level. Through small classes, individualized instruction, and one-on-one tutoring, students strengthen literacy and math skills and make measurable academic gains. This focused support helps ensure they reach grade-level proficiency by graduation.

The Summer Scholars Program also sparks curiosity and builds confidence through hands-on STEM learning. In our STEM Learning Center, students engage in robotics, coding, aeronautics, and design, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills while exploring new possibilities for their future.

For families in Newburgh, where economic hardship and community violence are daily realities, the Summer Scholars Program provides a consistent and caring space where students are safe, engaged, and supported.

We respectfully request an $8,000 grant from the Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation to support the Summer Scholars Program. This investment will help provide high-quality instruction, enriching STEM experiences, and the individualized support our students need to continue progressing academically and personally.
San Miguel Academy is a scholarship-driven, 501(c)(3) middle school serving students in Newburgh, NY. Through our 12-year Graduate Success Program, 98% of our students graduate from high school, and 90% go on to college, trade school, or the military.

Total Project Budget: $43,500.00

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Hope for Youth Foundation, ConnectOne Bank, Harris Matthews Charitable Foundation, TD Bank Charitable Foundation, Ulster Savings Bank Charitable, Thomas and Agnes Carvel Foundation, The Edward and Dorothy Perkins Foundation, Henry E. Niles Foundation

Project Duration: 7/1/27-6/30/28
Geographical Area Served: Newburgh, NY
Age Group To Be Served: 10-14

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Caitlin
Contact Last Name: Lynch
Contact Title: Vice President of Development
Contact Phone: 8603185597
Contact Email: developmentdirector@sanmiguelacademy.org

Grant Request Science from Scientists

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Science from Scientists
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: SciSci
Mailing Address: 533 Airport Blvd. Suite 135
City: Burlingame
State: CA
Postal Code: 94010
Main Phone: 617-314-7773
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://sciencefromscientists.org/
Employer ID Number: 20-0792574
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 3/23/2026
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Science from Scientists’ In-School Module-Based (ISMB) STEM Enrichment Program – California Bay Area Schools, 2026–2027 Academic Year
Project Description:

SciSci is requesting the opportunity to submit a full application for $10,000 to support implementation of our In-School Module-Based STEM (ISMB) Enrichment Program in the Bay Area during the 2026–2027 academic year.

Funding will directly support hands-on STEM instruction for approximately:
-20 Bay Area schools
-3,800 students in grades 3–8
-12 contact hours per student
-45,000+ total student hours
-110+ classroom teachers

The students served are 81% BIPOC, with 42% eligible for free/reduced lunch, 28% multilingual learners, and 14% students with disabilities. This investment would help expand access to high-quality STEM learning for students historically underrepresented in STEM fields.

ISMB partners with elementary and middle schools to deliver hands-on STEM lessons taught by Scientist Educators—real scientists and engineers with professional experience who are also trained educators.

Each school is matched with two dedicated Educators who teach the same students every other week during the school day. Schools choose:
-Half-year: 8 visits
-Full-year: Up to 16 visits

Educators collaborate with teachers to customize lessons from SciSci’s library of 100+ modules spanning life science, chemistry, physics, earth science, engineering, anatomy/physiology, and computer technology.
Lessons align with state standards and teachers receive preparation materials and extension activities, creating a turnkey STEM solution that includes:
-Dynamic STEM role models
-Standards-aligned, inquiry-based lessons
-All hands-on materials
-Classroom integration support

The program serves entire grade levels, ensuring broad and equitable impact.

ISMB builds STEM knowledge, skills, and confidence through sustained, hands-on learning with real scientists. By integrating high-quality STEM experiences into the school day, SciSci strengthens instruction, supports teachers, and empowers students to see themselves as future STEM leaders. At a time of declining performance and persistent inequities—especially in underserved communities—expanding access to rigorous, engaging STEM education is essential to preparing a diverse, skilled workforce for a rapidly evolving, technology-driven economy.

Total Project Budget: $539,359

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): To date, we have identified $65,000 in funding for the California ISMB program for the 2026–2027 academic year across a mix of committed and anticipated sources. This includes $10,000 confirmed from the Atkinson Foundation (invoiced), and $20,000 from the Bosch Community Fund currently under review following submission. We also anticipate $35,000 from returning annual funders—Hologic ($15,000), Cytokinetics ($5,000), and the John and Marcia Goldman Foundation ($15,000)—based on prior support, though these renewals are not yet guaranteed. As we are still early in the fundraising cycle, we expect to secure additional support from both new and existing partners in the coming months. This total does not yet include projected revenue from school fee-for-service partnerships. We are happy to provide a more detailed breakdown and share updates as we get closer to the start of the 2026–2027 academic year.

Project Duration: 09/01/2026-07/01/2027
Geographical Area Served: Bay Area (CA)
Age Group To Be Served: Elementary + Middle School students (grades 3-8)

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr
Contact First Name: Tyler
Contact Last Name: Connors
Contact Title: Senior Manager of Development
Contact Phone: 508-713-8543
Contact Email: development@sciencefromscientists.org

Grant Request Pathways Through Music

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Pathways Through Music
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 10833 FM 2657
City: Kempner
State: TX
Postal Code: 76539
Main Phone: 5128221546
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://pathwaysthroughmusic.org/
Employer ID Number: 86-1680856
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 3/23/2026
Requested Amount: 2,000

Project Title: Guitar Club
Project Description:

Pathways Through Music’s After-School Guitar Club provides free, school-based music instruction to students in under-resourced communities, with a focus on those who are not currently enrolled in other extracurricular activities. The program creates a safe, structured environment where students can remain on campus after school while engaging in meaningful, creative learning experiences.

Through weekly after-school sessions led by experienced music educators, students learn foundational guitar skills, including basic technique, rhythm, and ensemble playing. Instruction is hands-on and collaborative, encouraging students to build confidence, develop discipline, and express themselves through music. Students also have opportunities to perform, fostering a sense of accomplishment and connection to their peers and school community.

A key priority of the program is to engage students who may otherwise lack access to enrichment opportunities. By providing instruments, instruction, and programming directly on campus at no cost, Pathways Through Music removes common barriers such as transportation, fees, and limited program availability.

Beyond musical skill development, the Guitar Club supports students’ social and emotional well-being. By offering a positive and supervised after-school environment, the program helps increase student engagement, strengthen school connection, and reduce exposure to unsafe or high-risk situations.

With support from the Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation, Pathways Through Music will expand the Guitar Club to additional schools, reaching more students with consistent, high-quality music education and a safe space to learn, grow, and belong.

Total Project Budget: 2,700

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Private Principle Fund, Donates, Fundraisers

Project Duration: 9/07/26 – 5/21/27
Geographical Area Served: Williamson County, Texas
Age Group To Be Served: 11 – 14 years old

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: Jesse
Contact Last Name: Crites
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 512-822-1546
Contact Email: jesse@pathwaysthroughmusic.org

Grant Request Paramount Hudson Valley Arts Inc.

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Paramount Hudson Valley Arts Inc.
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: PHVA
Mailing Address: Paramount Theater, 1008 Brown Street
City: Peekskill
State: NY
Postal Code: 10566
Main Phone: 914-739-0039
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://paramounthudsonvalley.com
Employer ID Number: 46-4031449
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: March 23, 2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Sensory Friendly Performances for Youth with Autism & Developmental Disabilities
Project Description:

PHVA proposes to expand our Sensory Friendly Performance Series serving youth with autism and other social, learning, and cognitive disabilities. During our upcoming 2026-2027 season, we’ll present six Sensory Friendly shows at our 1,050-seat venue, the Paramount Theater in Peekskill, NY. This doubles the shows we presented during our successful pilot series in 2024-2026. We’ll serve up to 6,300 youth and their dedicated caregivers. To lower economic barriers for this audience, which includes many families in need, we’ll distribute 300+ FREE tickets and steeply discount 700+ tickets for each show.

Our Sensory Friendly shows are specially designed for children with developmental disabilities:
*Quieter sound levels and no sound cues that are abrupt/startling;
*House lights stay on, dimmed, so the theater is never dark;
*“No shushing” policy: Children are never asked to be quiet during shows;
*”Zen Zone” in our lobby: A relaxing area for children who need a break from the show.

Artists expected to be featured:
*Lori Berkner Band. Called “the queen of kids music” by People Magazine, Lori’s award-winning songs are streamed by families 10 million times a month! Lori has toured sensory-friendly concerts since 1992.

*Nutcracker: Short & Sweet. This relaxed, one-hour ballet by Hudson Valley Dance Theatre features professional dancers and rising ballet stars.

*The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show. This adaptation of Eric Carle’s beloved picture book features 6 actors and 75 puppets!

*Curious George and the Golden Meatball. This musical adventure stars the inquisitive and lovable monkey we all know from books, movies and the award-winning PBS television show.

*Cinderella. The Panto Company’s uplifting musical helps Cinderella’s naughty stepsisters learn the importance of being kind to everyone.

*Chick Chicka Boom Boom. Inspired by the beloved book, this musical adventure turns the alphabet into colorful characters who sing and dance up and down that famous coconut tree.

Total Project Budget: $76,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): New York State Council on the Arts (committed), Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation (potential), Impact 100 Westchester (potential), Milbank Foundation (potential), Looking Out Foundation (potential)

Project Duration: One year
Geographical Area Served: Hudson Valley region of New York: Westchester, Putnam, Orange and Rockland counties and the Bronx (NYC)
Age Group To Be Served: Age 6-21 (children and youth with disabilities) and their caregivers

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Abigail
Contact Last Name: Adams
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 914.649.5606
Contact Email: paramounthvgrants@gmail.com

Grant Request KidLinks

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: KidLinks
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 4848 Lemmon Ave, ste 100-104
City: Dallas
State: Texas
Postal Code: 75219
Main Phone: 817-268-0020
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.kidlinks.org
Employer ID Number: 75-1786051
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 03/23/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Empowering Youth Through Music: A Proposal for the Hermanowski Family Foundation
Project Description:

KidLinks is dedicated to improving and transforming the lives of children and young adults facing significant life challenges. By integrating clinical music therapy with therapeutic entertainment, we provide the essential tools necessary for these individuals to overcome obstacles, achieve their potential, and succeed in their communities.

Total Project Budget: 265640

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Major Fundraising Events (2), Major Gifts, Beasley Foundation, Fichtenbaum Foundation, McCune Foundation

Project Duration: Project funding for 1 year
Geographical Area Served: North Texas and surrounding areas (with the goal to expand)
Age Group To Be Served: Children under the age of 18 (parents and caregivers also benefit)

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Emily
Contact Last Name: Perry
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 2104752428
Contact Email: emily@kidlinks.org

Grant Request Kinston Teens

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Kinston Teens
Legal Name (if Different): Kinston Teens, Incorporated
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2625
City: Kinston
State: NC
Postal Code: 28502
Main Phone: 252-522-8012
Main Fax: N/A
Organization Website: www.kinstonteens.org
Employer ID Number: 47-2645211
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: March 23, 2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Youth Speak: Voices for Healing & Wellness
Project Description:

Youth Speak is a year-long youth mental wellness and empowerment initiative led by Kinston Teens. The purpose of this project is to create structured, youth-led spaces where teens and young adults can process stress, build resilience, and express their authentic voices during a pivotal civic year.

In rural Eastern North Carolina, young people face rising anxiety, political polarization, economic uncertainty, and limited access to mental health resources. Youth Speak addresses these pressures by providing a continuum of engagement that combines dialogue, creative expression, peer leadership, and civic voice.

The series will anchor around two signature events: Youth Speak: Teen Town Hall (Fall 2026), where youth engage candidates and elected officials in a moderated, youth-led conversation about mental health and community well-being; and Youth Speak: Now What? (Winter 2026/27), a post-election reflection and resilience forum focused on processing emotions, rebuilding hope, and identifying constructive next steps for youth leadership.

Between these events, participants will engage in monthly wellness circles, journaling and storytelling workshops, peer facilitator training, and small-group dialogue sessions designed to strengthen coping skills, belonging, and self-advocacy. Youth leaders will help shape each gathering, ensuring the program reflects lived experiences and authentic priorities.

The ultimate purpose of Youth Speak is to reduce isolation, increase confidence and agency, and empower young people to believe their voices matter. Our goal is that this belief is evident not only during moments of public attention like election seasons or crises, but that we are able to empower youth to shape a healthier, more hopeful future for themselves and their community.

Total Project Budget: 10,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): N/A

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Kinston, NC
Age Group To Be Served: 12-21

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Bridget
Contact Last Name: Rouse
Contact Title: Youth Engagement Manager
Contact Phone: 252-522-8012
Contact Email: bridget@kinstonteens.org

Grant Request Cornerstone Family Programs and Morristown Neighborhood House

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Cornerstone Family Programs and Morristown Neighborhood House
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: CFP
Mailing Address: 12 Flagler St, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA
City: Morristown
State: NJ
Postal Code: 07960
Main Phone: 9735381229
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://cornerstonefamilyprograms.org/
Employer ID Number: 22-1489900
Organization Tax Status: 501C3

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 3/23/26
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Unity Steppers
Project Description:

The Unity Steppers program provides equitable access to high-quality, community-based dance education for youth—primarily girls and young women ages 8–18. The program nurtures creativity, cultural pride, leadership, and confidence while fostering discipline, teamwork, and socio-emotional growth. Many families in Morristown face barriers to traditional arts opportunities due to cost, language, or limited school programming. Unity Steppers helps close this gap by offering an affordable, inclusive dance and drill program that blends African American, Latin, and contemporary dance traditions.

The program is offered through Cornerstone Family Programs at the Morristown Neighborhood House and provides youth with a supportive environment where they can build skills, connect with mentors, and express themselves through movement and performance.

Participants attend two 90-minute after-school sessions each week, where they learn stepping, hip-hop, salsa, merengue, bachata, and reggae while developing drill-team precision and performance techniques such as call-and-response, rhythm, and synchronized movement. These sessions also emphasize teamwork, discipline, and leadership, helping participants build confidence and a sense of belonging.

Beyond dance instruction, Unity Steppers incorporates mentorship and life-skills development. Coaches and volunteers serve as positive role models, encouraging goal-setting, resilience, and personal growth. Workshops and discussions introduce topics such as financial literacy, conflict resolution, and mental health awareness, helping youth develop skills that support success in school and life.

Public performances are an important part of the program experience. Unity Steppers performs at community celebrations, cultural events, sporting events, and talent showcases. These performances allow participants to share their talents while celebrating African American and Latin cultural traditions. Through these experiences, youth strengthen community connections, develop pride in their accomplishments, and gain valuable leadership and performance skills.

Total Project Budget: $54,976

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $5,000 will be from corporate support and $15,000 each from Investors Foundation and Looking Out Foundation (potential)

Project Duration: one year
Geographical Area Served: Morristown and Dover New Jersey and the surrounding communities
Age Group To Be Served: 8-18

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: JoAnn
Contact Last Name: Hoppe
Contact Title: Grants Manager
Contact Phone: 9087873865
Contact Email: jhoppe@cfp-mnh.org

Grant Request Cornerstone Family Programs and Morristown Neighborhood House

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Cornerstone Family Programs and Morristown Neighborhood House
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: CFP
Mailing Address: 12 Flagler St, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA
City: Morristown
State: NJ
Postal Code: 07960
Main Phone: 9735381229
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://cornerstonefamilyprograms.org/
Employer ID Number: 22-1489900
Organization Tax Status: 501C3

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 3/23/26
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Unity Steppers
Project Description:

The Unity Steppers program provides equitable access to high-quality, community-based dance education for youth—primarily girls and young women ages 8–18. The program nurtures creativity, cultural pride, leadership, and confidence while fostering discipline, teamwork, and socio-emotional growth. Many families in Morristown face barriers to traditional arts opportunities due to cost, language, or limited school programming. Unity Steppers helps close this gap by offering an affordable, inclusive dance and drill program that blends African American, Latin, and contemporary dance traditions.

The program is offered through Cornerstone Family Programs at the Morristown Neighborhood House and provides youth with a supportive environment where they can build skills, connect with mentors, and express themselves through movement and performance.

Participants attend two 90-minute after-school sessions each week, where they learn stepping, hip-hop, salsa, merengue, bachata, and reggae while developing drill-team precision and performance techniques such as call-and-response, rhythm, and synchronized movement. These sessions also emphasize teamwork, discipline, and leadership, helping participants build confidence and a sense of belonging.

Beyond dance instruction, Unity Steppers incorporates mentorship and life-skills development. Coaches and volunteers serve as positive role models, encouraging goal-setting, resilience, and personal growth. Workshops and discussions introduce topics such as financial literacy, conflict resolution, and mental health awareness, helping youth develop skills that support success in school and life.

Public performances are an important part of the program experience. Unity Steppers performs at community celebrations, cultural events, sporting events, and talent showcases. These performances allow participants to share their talents while celebrating African American and Latin cultural traditions. Through these experiences, youth strengthen community connections, develop pride in their accomplishments, and gain valuable leadership and performance skills.

Total Project Budget: $54,976

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $5,000 will be from corporate support and $15,000 each from Investors Foundation and Looking Out Foundation (potential)

Project Duration: one year
Geographical Area Served: Morristown and Dover New Jersey and the surrounding communities
Age Group To Be Served: 8-18

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: JoAnn
Contact Last Name: Hoppe
Contact Title: Grants Manager
Contact Phone: 9087873865
Contact Email: jhoppe@cfp-mnh.org

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