Classmate sponsor: Rick Weil

Website: therootsofmusic.org

Video: https://youtu.be/uz3nRSJ6UiU

Contact ROM through project sponsor: fdweil@gmail.com

Mission: The Roots of Music empowers the youth of New Orleans through music education, academic support, and mentorship while preserving and promoting the unique musical and cultural heritage of our city. Our goal is to provide our kids with the resources they need to lead positive, productive, self-reliant lives.

Impact Model:

CONTEXT

Lack of access to after school programs, tutoring, and mentoring. New Orleans experiences a lack of opportunities and high crime.

TARGET

Kids age 9-14 from low-income households of the City of New Orleans.

RESPONSE

Provide music education, academic support, and mentorship.

OUTCOME

Almost 2,000 kids have gone through the program since its founding in 2007. Their grades go up a full grade; many go to college; almost none get involved with crime.

VISION

Enable kids to lead positive, productive, self-reliant lives.