As a taxpayer in Ohio, and especially Mahoning County, you know very well that our schools are under-funded. Though the Canfield Board(s) of Education over the years have been good stewards of our tax dollars, there simply is not enough for everything that goes on in the schools.
Our band and instrumental music programs are no exception. They rely on organizations like the Canfield Band Parents and others to raise and contribute money to support the many programs and activities that are currently offered. This is exactly why the Canfield Band Parents, Inc. was formed.
There are several “categories” of needs within our school band and music program. The Canfield Band Parents, Inc. tries to fill those needs whenever possible. We are always seeking donations to our programs in order to help them evolve and grow instead of shrinking.
While we have typically directed donations into our general fund, some like to give to a particular fund or cause based on their personal interests. This is why we are highlighting these “catagories” for dedicated giving.
The main categories of donations are:
- CBP general fund
- New or used instruments and instrument repair
- The new uniform fund
THE “GENERAL FUND”
The number of day to day things that the CBP supports for our kids and our band programs are too numerous to list here. From hot chocolate and bottled water for the kids at games, to meals for far-away trips, to sheet music, equipment purchases, student awards, the list goes on and on.
Our general fund is very important and is largely supported by our concession stands, Band Night and Spirit Wear revenues. However, the need is always greater than the supply.
NEW INSTRUMENTS / USED INSTRUMENTS and REPAIR
As more Canfield children progress through the school system and want to play instruments, we need to have ample numbers of instruments available for them to play. Right now we are at a deficit. We cannot always count on parents being able to buy their children instruments, and we are grateful for those who can and do.
The band directors have a very detailed list of instrument needs – not wants. They are always in touch with the new and used instrument marketplace looking for the best deals possible for our programs.
The current school instruments do get used frequently and do require routine maintenance. Much of this must be shipped out to professionals, and again this costs money.
NEW UNIFORM FUND
The current uniforms were purchased in 2013. A percentage of certain CBP, Inc. fundraisers is allocated towards the new uniform fund each year.