Submitted by the Elmhurst Instrumental Music Boosters.

ELMHURST, IL — The Elmhurst Instrumental Music Boosters (EMB), a parent group that supports District 205 music programs in grades 4 through 8, has received large donations from two Elmhurst-based organizations. The local chapter of Kiwanis International gifted EMB $1,000 as part of its Sound Foundations initiative and has expressed an interest in a long-term partnership. The 100+ Women Who Care group made a one-time gift of $15,500 to EMB, the largest donation ever from the Elmhurst charity. Formed in 1931 the Kiwanis Club has "serving children of the world" as part of its mission. The Club has contributed to the well-being of local communities by giving time and financial support to scores of charities, cultural and educational programs and needy children and their families.

"When we learned how significant music is to a young person's learning, and now because of limited family finances, some students might not be able to participate in our District's program, we felt the need to help," says Kiwanis member Rich Rosenberg. "We are proud and delighted that EMB has given us an appropriate way to help." Rosenberg added. Sound Foundations provides a confidential source of funds for beginners in fourth grade to have certain expenses and fees paid at the start of the school year, while they begin their early lessons and instruction.

The continued partnership between EMB and Kiwanis may also provide assistance to these families throughout the school year if needed.

"Kiwanis and EMB have forged an outstanding partnership that will benefit music students for years to come," says Kevin Scanlon, EMB financial aid chairman. "We encourage local groups to reach out to Kiwanis and get involved with this initiative." 100+ Women Who Care, a group of women in the Elmhurst area who raise money for local organizations, chose EMB as its fall charity. EMB received a donation of $15,500 to support the scholarship programs for D205 elementary and middle school music students.

Founded in 2006 in Michigan, 100+WWC expanded to the Elmhurst area in 2013 by Betsy Aldred, Amy Allen, Jean Carlquist, Marty Davy and Charlotte Mushow. Today the group boasts more than 150 members who gather four times a year. Members contribute $100 to attend each meeting and listen to various local organizations present their needs. Then they select one charity to receive the funds. EMB Board member Anne Olson made the presentation on behalf of music directors and students.

"100+ Women Who Care is really making a difference in our community," she says. "We appreciate local residents coming together to help us support our young musicians."

This year, EMB will support 30 new students and 200 students will receive scholarship support. Opportunities for ensemble performances, social activities, and practice incentives will also be provided by the EMB. For more information on EMB, go to www.emb205.org. "Today's EMB board is extremely passionate in supporting recruitment and retention of students in our district's music programs whether it's band, orchestra or choir," said Amy Mortensen, EMB Board president. "What Kiwanis and 100+ Women have done is amazing: They alone will allow us to increase our support to a new level, and we are so grateful."