Our mission is to promote wellness within underserved Chicago communities by providing lasting access to exceptional performing arts instruction.
BANDING TOGETHER
Who We Are
BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to promote wellness for Chicago youth through lasting access to high quality performing arts instruction.
Since our founding in 2013, BandWith has connected over 700 young people ages 5-21 with outstanding arts instructors and mentors, and provided them with the performance opportunities and support they need to be successful. In a moment when youth are growing more isolated, making music allows immediate and long-term connection with others. We see this connectedness everyday in our band, drumline, choral and dance ensembles.
How We Started
Executive Director Annie Palomino launched BandWith Chicago in 2013 when the band program was dropped from LEARN Campbell Charter School in East Garfield Park due to budget cuts. Starting a nonprofit allowed Annie to continue providing free music instruction within LEARN Charter, and expand into after school programming.
Since then, BandWith has developed into a stable, independent organization that offers individual and small group music instruction, weekly ensemble play, and performance opportunities to participating youth throughout the year. BandWith’s free in-school and after-school programs serve 185 students annually and are still located within the East Garfield Park community.
Where We’re Going
We’re building a permanent home for BandWith—a 25,000 sq. ft. performing arts center in East Garfield Park. The new facility will house all of our core programs, create job-training opportunities for youth, and become a lasting hub for creativity, community, and connection. Our growth reflects our ongoing promise: to uplift Chicago youth through access, mentorship, and the life-changing power of the arts.
OUR TEAM
ANNIE PALOMINO
Director
TONA PALOMINO
Board Secretary
MISSEY LOVE
Philanthropy Officer
CHRISTOPHER SMITH
Assistant Director
Our Vision
Building a world-class music program through which underserved youth can discover the empowering and joyous experience of making music with others.
Our Programs
BandWith’s free programs are located in East Garfield Park. They include our longest standing program, the Titan Band, within LEARN Charter School, and our after-school programs.
Our Mission
Our mission is to promote wellness within underserved Chicago communities by providing lasting access to exceptional performing arts instruction.
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