Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Music Resource Center- Cincinnati
Legal Name (if Different): Music Resource Center- Cincinnati
Also Known As:
Mailing Address:
City: Cincinnati
State: Ohio
Postal Code: 45206
Main Phone: (513) 834-8304
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://mrccinci.org/
Employer ID Number: 31-0537178
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 2/16/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Amplifying Teen Voices Through Music Access
Project Description:

The Music Resource Center (MRC), powered by the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati, seeks $10,000 to expand equitable access to high-quality music education for teens from under-resourced communities. Located in East Walnut Hills, MRC provides year-round, after-school programming that combines individualized music lessons, digital production, songwriting, studio recording, and live performance opportunities in a safe, inclusive environment.

While Cincinnati has a wealth of arts organizations that offer educational programs for its youth, most of these programs have associated fees that create barriers to participation. In a city where 19% of the total population and 33% of children are living at or below the poverty line, paid arts programming is inherently exclusionary.

At the MRC, for less than $10 per month, teens gain access to professional-grade instruments, recording equipment, mentorship from working musicians, meals, and transportation support, removing financial and logistical barriers that often prevent participation in arts education. Funding will support subsidized memberships, instructional staffing, outreach expansion within Cincinnati Public Schools, and performance opportunities through quarterly Student Sampler showcases.
Participants engage in structured programming up to five days per week during the school year and through immersive summer camps. Teens produce original music, collaborate in bands, record in professional studios, and perform for live audiences, building both artistic skill and social-emotional growth. Evaluation includes attendance tracking, instructor assessments, and Hello Insight surveys measuring resilience, goal setting, and belonging.

This investment will allow MRC to serve approximately 150 + teens annually, expand outreach to new neighborhoods, YMCA branches, and ensure that students who might otherwise lack access to music education can develop confidence, discipline, creativity, and leadership skills. By amplifying teen voices, MRC strengthens academic engagement, community connection, and long-term opportunity.

Total Project Budget: $337,149.73

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $2,000 Les Paul (Pending), $10,000 PNC Bank (Pending), $150,000 Robert & Adele Schiff Foundation (Annual Renewal Anticipated)

Project Duration: January 1, 2027 – October 31, 2027
Geographical Area Served: The Music Resource Center serves youth throughout the City of Cincinnati, with a primary focus on neighborhoods surrounding East Walnut Hills, Evanston, Avondale, Walnut Hills, Bond Hill, West End, and other historically under-resourced communities. As part of the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati network, the program also connects with teens from surrounding Hamilton County communities through nearby YMCA branches, expanding access across Greater Cincinnati.
Age Group To Be Served: Grades 7–12; approximately ages 12–18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Miss
Contact First Name: Ania
Contact Last Name: Cosby
Contact Title: Director of Development & Grants
Contact Phone: 513-592-1419
Contact Email: acosbycincinnatiymca@gmail.com