Grant Request Classics 4 Kids

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Classics 4 Kids
Legal Name (if Different): Classics for Kids, Inc.
Also Known As: Classics 4 Kids
Mailing Address: 3033 Fifth Ave, Ste 227, San Diego, CA 92103
City: San Diego
State: CA
Postal Code: 92103
Main Phone: 6192312311
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.classics4kids.org
Employer ID Number: 33-0706949
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 3/19/26
Requested Amount: $3,000

Project Title: Equitable Access to Virtual Music Education Concert
Project Description:

Classics 4 Kids is committed to transforming the lives of children ages 4-13 by providing equitable access to high-quality arts education that builds the skills, confidence, and cultural awareness needed to succeed.

In November 2025, we produced "One World, Many Songs", an educational orchestra concert at the Joan B. Kroc Theatre in San Diego, reaching 2,814 children (ages 4-13) —many from communities with limited access to arts learning opportunities.

Designed specifically for student audiences, this multicultural program used live music as a powerful tool to foster empathy, connection, and global understanding. Performed by professional musicians, the concert invited young people to explore diverse cultural traditions while highlighting shared human values such as cooperation, resilience, and belonging. Students actively participated in the performance, culminating in a communal vocal rendition of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” reinforcing the importance of collaboration and collective voice. A special collaboration with Sharon Katz & The Peace Train Band further deepened the impact, introducing students to South African music rooted in themes of kindness and reconciliation.

To expand access beyond a single event, Classics 4 Kids recorded the concert and will release it as a free, time-limited virtual program on YouTube for the span of 1 month. This digital distribution removes geographic and financial barriers, enabling educators nationwide—particularly in under-resourced schools—to integrate this enriching experience into their classrooms. With a proven track record of reaching over 25,000 students through past virtual concerts, this project ensures that even more young people can access transformative arts experiences.

By combining live performance, digital access, and culturally responsive programming, "One World, Many Songs" equips children with the tools to think critically, connect across differences, and realize their full potential in an increasingly interconnected world.

This grant is scalable. Funding will provide editing, distribution, licensing and marketing costs.

Total Project Budget: $10,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Ripples 4 Ever Fund, Prebys Foundation

Project Duration: 5/1/26-6/30/26
Geographical Area Served: nation-wide
Age Group To Be Served: 4-13

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms
Contact First Name: Kelly
Contact Last Name: Makley
Contact Title: Development Manager
Contact Phone: 619 231 2311
Contact Email: kmakley@classics4kids.org