ORLANDO, FL – April 17, 2025 - April serves as a significant month for philanthropic activities among arts organizations in Central Florida. The 30th of April marks the conclusion of the United Arts Collaborative Campaign, during which contributions can qualify for a matching funds pool totaling up to $1,250,000. In light of recent reductions in state arts funding, which are projected to persist, 82 arts organizations in the region find themselves seeking more support from the community.
The cuts to arts funding have resulted in a loss of nearly $25,000 in grant funding that Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras (FSYO) was scheduled to receive for the 2024-2025 season. Throughout the season, FSYO has actively sought to address the impact of funding changes through various initiatives, one of which includes establishing partnerships with several local organizations such as Orlando Public Houses and Kendra Scott. FSYO is grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with local businesses that align with our mission, support community engagement, and help raise funds for our young musicians.
Throughout the month of April, FSYO is featured as the Good Bite and Good Burger at the Orlando Public Houses. The Orlando Public Houses serve the Central Florida community by providing a casual environment for families and friends to gather, enjoy their time together, and eat great food. To help give back to their community, Ollie’s and Vanbarry’s have created specialized menu items specifically for FSYO, with some musical names to match. Ollie’s at College Park is serving up the Marinara Medley while you can head over to Vanbarry’s for The Mozzart. Each purchase of either the Good Bite or the Good Burger will directly benefit FSYO!
At the end of this month, Kendra Scott will host a giveback event in partnership with FSYO. The Kendra Scott Foundation exists to empower women and youth in the areas of health and wellness, education, and entrepreneurship. From April 26th to April 27th at the Winter Park location, customers can use the discount code online to contribute 20% of their purchase to benefit FSYO and the 2025 Japan Summer Tour. We invite the community to visit the store in person on April 27th from 2:00 - 4:00pm to shop and engage with an FSYO staff member to learn more about our programming. During this time only, shoppers in store can mention FSYO at check out to contribute 20% of their purchase. This event is just in time for Mother's Day and provides the perfect opportunity to pick up a gift for mom!
Another great way to give to FSYO is by booking an ensemble for your next event! From duos to quartets, our students rehearse together weekly in small groups and are provided with a library of music to ensure a diverse musical selection for events. Booking FSYO for an event allows our students to receive valuable performance experience as well as the opportunity to earn funds that will go towards their upcoming Japan Summer Tour.
As we wrap up the month, we invite you to join us in making a meaningful impact through these exciting opportunities to connect, collaborate, and give back!
ABOUT FSYO: Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras empowers young musicians to achieve excellence and inspire their communities through a shared love of music. In its 68th Concert Season, FSYO serves over 300 students and comprises eight ensembles - three symphony orchestras, two string orchestras, two jazz bands, and a percussion ensemble.
FSYO programs are carefully structured to encourage student growth with FSYO throughout their primary and secondary years. Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras’ full range of ensembles gives each student a place to excel with peers at a similar level and an opportunity to collaborate with seasoned music professionals on local, national, and international levels. During summers, students participate in life-changing experiences of organized tours, alternating between international and national travel.
Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras is funded in part by United Arts of Central Florida, your local agency for the arts and by the Orange County Government through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program. FSYO is also sponsored by the City of Orlando through the Mayor's Matching Grant.
For more information, please visit www.fsyo.org | facebook.com/THEFSYO | @f_s_y_o (instagram) | youtube.com/fsyo
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