Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Beyond the Bars
Legal Name (if Different): Beyond the Bars
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 3500 Lancaster
City: Philadelphia
State: PA
Postal Code: 19104
Main Phone: 267-225-7247
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.beyondthebarsmusic.org
Employer ID Number: 47-5225752
Organization Tax Status: 501c3. Nonprofit

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/31/2025
Requested Amount: 5000

Project Title: Running an Ecosystem of Support for Youth Impacted by Violence
Project Description:

Beyond the Bars’ Ecosystem of Support is a citywide music education and youth development initiative that uses music as a tool for healing, self-expression, community building, and violence prevention. Grounded in the belief that every young person deserves access to creative spaces and caring adults, the Ecosystem of Support operates in over 55 locations across Philadelphia—including schools, community centers, trauma clinics, shelters, and recreation centers—to meet youth wherever they are.

The program is student-driven, community-based, and rooted in anti-racist, trauma-informed practices. Through hands-on music programming that includes songwriting, recording, production, and performance, youth not only develop musical skills but also build self-efficacy, emotional resilience, and a sense of belonging. Facilitators are trained musicians and mentors, many of whom come from the communities they serve. Each site is supported by a robust system of check-ins, family engagement, and wraparound resource connections to ensure youth are holistically supported.

A core innovation of the program is the Student Teacher pathway, where experienced youth become peer educators, mentors, and emerging leaders. These student teachers help lead classes, support younger participants, and often pursue careers in education or music. The program has activated over 45 music lab spaces across the city, refurbished hundreds of instruments and computers, and provided thousands of youth with sustained opportunities for growth and leadership.

Beyond the Bars’ Ecosystem of Support is not only a music program—it is a movement to transform how youth are engaged, valued, and supported in our city. By investing in creative expression and affirming relationships, the program actively interrupts cycles of violence and divestment, offering young people pathways to healing, leadership, and lifelong success.

Total Project Budget: 800000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): 790000

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Philadelphia
Age Group To Be Served: 10-21

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: Matthew
Contact Last Name: Kerr
Contact Title: Co-Executive Director
Contact Phone: 267-225-7247
Contact Email: matthew.kerr@beyondthebarsmusic.org