Baltimore's Marching Elite Faces Summer Funding Crisis After 18 Years
A Baltimore youth programme is facing funding cuts just as summer begins. The Marching Elite Foundation has helped young people through music, dance, and mentorship for nearly two decades. Now, its leader warns that fewer children may get support this year. Dennis Lee Jr. launched the Marching Elite Foundation in 2006. The programme teaches music, career skills, and life lessons to young people aged 4 to 24. Many participants have had run-ins with the justice system or simply need a creative outlet.
The foundation uses marching arts, dance, and music to keep youth engaged all year. Instruments and training are provided free of charge. Kamari Weaver, now a long-time member, joined five years ago to find direction. Aniyah Bess, a programme leader, credits the band with improving her mental health through dance.
Funding from the Baltimore Children and Youth Fund (BCYF) has helped sustain the initiative. But recent cuts threaten to reduce the number of places available. Lee Jr. has spoken out about the risks, stressing the need to keep young people safe and busy during the summer months. Without more support, fewer young people may access the programme this summer. The foundation has relied on BCYF funding to offer instruments, training, and mentorship. Leaders hope to find a way to maintain services for those who depend on them.
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