Music Moves Us
We invest in youth through transformative music engagement, creating equitable opportunities for black and brown youth in Memphis.
Why Music?The Challenge
Despite its strong cultural assets, Memphis is facing a difficult socioeconomic climate and many challenges serve as critical barriers to youth success.
40 of Memphis youth live below the poverty line
more than26 of youth in many of Memphis' most underserved neighborhoods won't graduate from high school.
less than5 of Memphis youth have access to after-school music programming compared to 15-20% in similar cities.
The Opportunity
Research demonstrates the powerful role music engagement focused youth development activities can play in equipping youth with the skills, attitudes, and behaviors needed to overcome these barriers and succeed in school and life.
Strengthening problem-solving skills
Encouraging communication and creative expression
Teaching tenacity and the value of hard work
Deepening engagement in school and learning community
Our Approach
in-school
Sustain existing in-school music education and expand instruction through partnerships with local musicians
Learn MoreMMI Works
Expand high-quality out-of-school time programs to reach more youth and remove barriers to youth engagement and participation
Learn MoreGrantmaking & Capacity Building
We invest to build strong and effective organizations through operational grant funding and supports that foster sustainability and improve program quality.
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