DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund announces its plan to once again join forces with Academy Award-Nominated Actor Terrence Howard to donate a $38,000 grant to Settlement Music School to help fund their Kaleidoscope Pre-School Arts Enrichment Program. Howard, a long time musician, collaborated with DaimlerChrysler – a huge supporter of the arts and youth initiatives – to reach youth who often miss the opportunity to study arts through inner-city school programs. The announcement was made today by Frank Fountain, Senior Vice President, External Affairs and Public Policy (Auburn Hills), Chrysler Group at Settlement Music School's 'Mary Louise Curtis Branch' in Philadelphia, Pa.
The donation to Settlement Music School's Kaleidoscope program resulted from a 2006 charitable project where Howard and one of Chrysler Group's lead designers, Ralph Gilles, customized a 2006 Jeep® Commander. The proceeds of the vehicle went to fund a minority automotive design scholarship at the College for Creative Studies (CCS) in Detroit. Additionally, Fountain and Howard agreed to establish another scholarship to fund an arts program in Pennsylvania, where Howard resides, to provide other opportunities to reach and encourage youth.
"This grant in the name of the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund and Terrence Howard reflects our commitment and understanding of how the arts empower our young people to develop and succeed despite any challenging circumstances," said Frank Fountain. "Settlement Music School, which will celebrate 100 years in 2008, has a history of enriching young minds and changing lives so DaimlerChrysler celebrates being a part of this legacy."
Settlement Music School has been a cornerstone for kids studying the arts in Pennsylvania for nearly 100 years. Specifically, its Kaleidoscope Pre-School Arts Enrichment Program is a nationally recognized model that uses the arts to prepare low-income, inner city pre-school students for academic success.
Kaleidoscope is among the 5 percent of early childhood programs in the United States to meet the rigorous standards for accreditation by the National Association for Education of Young Children.
"My guitar is a solace and inspiration," said Howard. "Kids today need to know and appreciate music and the arts because it sparks an inner cord that can transform our children in so many ways. So, I see today as an opportunity to partner with DaimlerChrysler, Settlement Music School and the children of this great State to support a music genre that inspires our youth to greatness."
"We are delighted that DaimlerChrysler and Mr. Howard have chosen to recognize Settlement Music School's Kaleidoscope pre-school program with this generous contribution. Several studies have shown that Kaleidoscope is uniquely successful in developing school readiness skills in children and giving them an important introductory experience in music, dance and art," said Robert Capanna, Executive Director of Settlement Music School.
Via: DaimlerChrysler Press-release