The International House of Blues Foundation

The International House of Blues Foundation is a public charity (50(c)(3)) gunded by HOB Entertainment, Inc. and by corporate and private donations. Decicated to promoting racial harmony and multi-cultural awareness in primary and secondary school students., it is an independent entity that shares the House of Blues celebration of the Blues and southern culture. The primary goal of the Foundation is to join with other socially conscious groups in the vital effort to put art and music back into publis schools. The Foundation was was created in January 1993 when an assembly of Boston-area public school and university educators, civic leaders, and House of Blues representatives travelled to Oxford. Mississippi's Center For the Study of Southern Culture. Under the guidance of the Center's director, Professor William Ferris, discussions were held to determine what sorts of educational outreach programs would be effective and appropriate to further the goals outlined above. Several short, medium, and long range program objectives were established, and a Board of Directors were established, and a Board of Directors formed to guide these efforts.

The Foundation aims to provide a deep and lasting impact. As students explore the history of Blues music and the African-American experience that created it, they learn of the roots and progression of a rich culture and gain understanding of how it began and why it continues to flourish. From this, they develop a greater awareness and respect for all diverse cultures that make up the fabric of American life.

HOUSE OF BLUES SCHOOL ROOM

Three days a week, the House of Blues becomes a classroom from 9 a.m. until mid-day. A unique curriculum, designed by the Foundation staff of educators, uses American music history as a "time-line" to provide an interactive educational experience. The program incorporates our folk art collection and live music to teach history, sociology,. and civil rights. The program has been enormously successful with over 5,000 students (grades 5-12) participating in our first year.

RESIDENT ARTIST PROGRAM

Taking the tours to the schools, the Foundation organizes and funds visits to schools by musicians, artists, and race relations expert. Planned variations of this program include master classes given to music students by professional musicians, travelling art exhibits, as well as forums and workshops aimed at raising consciousness through exposure to the rich cultural heritage of the Blues.

BLUES AMBASSADOR SCHOLARSHIPS

Every year in every House of Blues location, the Foundation funds four one-thousand dollar college scholarships (renewable for four years). Recipients are high school seniors pursuing college studies in music, the arts, or human relations. The program is in its second year in the Boston, Massachusetts area, and was initiated in New Orleans during Spring graduation 1994. Scholarships will be awarded in Los Angeles at the end of the summer to students beginning college this coming Fall.

Other House of Blues Foundation programs include the creation of teacher resource packages, resource centers, and the development of a public school curriculum and educational support products.


IUMA / House of Blues Foundation