Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Birthplace of Country Music, Inc.
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: Birthplace of Country Music
Mailing Address: 101 Country Music Way
City: Bristol
State: Virginia
Postal Code: 24201
Main Phone: 423-573-1927
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://www.birthplaceofcountrymusic.org
Employer ID Number: 62-1580405
Organization Tax Status: 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/13/2023
Requested Amount: $5,000

Project Title: Pick Along Summer Camps 2024
Project Description:

The Birthplace of Country Music, Inc. (BCM) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located in Bristol, Tennessee-Virginia, is comprised of three branches: the Smithsonian-affiliated Birthplace of Country Music Museum; the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival; and Radio Bristol, the public radio station that broadcasts from the museum. BCM’s mission is to perpetuate, promote, and celebrate Bristol’s rich musical heritage; to educate and engage audiences worldwide regarding the history, impact, and legacy of the 1927 Bristol Sessions; and to create recognition, opportunities, and economic benefit for our local and regional communities. BCM accomplishes this mission through exhibits, educational programming and work with area school systems, outreach through our museum and radio station, academic and learning workshops, performances, community partnerships, advocacy, and much more.

One of the most tangible ways we deliver music and museum education is through our Summer Camp program, which is held at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. In 2023 we plan to offer 2-3 camp weeks aimed at beginner and intermediate students aged 8—16. Children receive instruction on several stringed instruments (including banjo, acoustic guitar and fiddle), in addition to learning fundamental skills in music styles including bluegrass, old-time, and country. Campers explore our museum, learn about regional music, work with our radio station, and learn about other concepts that make up the rich tapestry of country music. Camps play an important impact on local youth, and help to inspire an interest in music and the arts. Since the program was first offered in 2015 the program has reached over 160 students, many of which come from rural and underserved areas (camps canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID). Camp weeks have capacity for 12-15 students.

This request is for support for the program Summer 24’ (planning will begin early 2024).

Total Project Budget: $12,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Potential funding for the 2024 camp program includes the following; all grants listed below have been award to this program in previous years. BCM will re-apply to opportunities closer to our camp program dates (June and July 2024). – Virginia Commission for the Arts ($3,000); Wayne Henderson Music Scholarships and Grants ($1,000); IBMA Foundation $2,000; Walmart Community Grant Program ($2,500)

Project Duration: Yearly (2-3 weeks each Summer)
Geographical Area Served: Virginia, Southwest Virginia, Bristol, VA, Bristol, TN
Age Group To Be Served: Youth Students aged 8-16

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Toni
Contact Last Name: Doman-Vandyke
Contact Title: Grants Coordinator
Contact Phone: 304-780-5871
Contact Email: tdoman@birthplaceofcountrymusic.org