The Gilchrist Foundation Funds the Future of Music
There are few things more powerful than music. It’s been said that music is the universal language of mankind. It inspires, motivates, teaches and simply makes listeners feel happy, especially in youth.
Research shows that music education does more than spark creativity. It strengthens wellbeing, supports academic growth and actually boosts their wellbeing.
The Gilchrist Foundation believes access to music and arts education is essential for Siouxland youth. That is why supporting area music programs remains a meaningful part of its mission.
In 2025, the Foundation supported several area initiatives that aim to make music more accessible to kids throughout the area.
Investing in School Band Programs
Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools received a $10,000 Project Grant for new color guard band instruments. The Heelan Band program gives students of all skill levels a place to grow artistically.
MOC-Floyd Valley School District received a $5,000 Micro Grant to purchase four new instruments. These additions help ensure that more students can participate in band and continue discovering their musical talents both inside and outside the classroom.
Okoboji Fine Arts was awarded a $5,000 Micro Grant to purchase instruments for the Okoboji High School Band. As a fine arts booster and community organization, OFA plays an important role in supporting K-12 students and strengthening the district’s music offerings.
Sioux City Community School District received a $4,960.49 Micro Grant to help Irving Elementary’s fifth grade band purchase six instruments. Irving is proud to be a Dual Language school, and this investment ensures that even more students can experience the joy and discipline of band as part of their well-rounded education.
Expanding Access to Music Education
First United Methodist Church received a $25,000 Project Grant for the Music Academy @ First, expanding its private lesson program to include band instruments. The Academy provides free, high quality music instruction to children whose families might not otherwise be able to afford lessons. By removing financial barriers, the program opens the door to personal growth, academic development and the lifelong benefits of music education.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Siouxland received a $10,000 Project Grant for music room renovations. The organization’s Teen Center includes a recording studio where youth can explore music production and sound engineering as part of regular arts programming. The improvements will create an even more inspiring space for creativity.
[H2] Supporting Performance Opportunities
Le Mars Community Schools Boosters received a $10,000 Project Grant for the Bulldog Battle of the Bands. Organized to support and promote the school’s music program, the event debuted at Le Mars Community Stadium and brought together 12 bands in its inaugural year.
Mater Dei School received a $5,000 Micro Grant for musical instruments incorporated into its playground renovation. As part of Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools, Mater Dei continues to find creative ways to weave music into everyday student experiences, making it accessible even outside the traditional classroom setting.
About the Gilchrist Foundation
The Gilchrist Foundation was established by Jocelyn Gilchrist of Sioux City to honor her family and their philanthropic interests. Jocelyn supported the arts, wildlife and conservation, public broadcasting and disaster relief throughout her lifetime both personally and through the Foundation. After her death in 2008, the Foundation continued to support these causes.
Today, the mission of the Gilchrist Foundation is to further the philanthropy of its founder and her family with an emphasis on fostering the long-term viability of charitable organizations and enabling special projects rather than supplying current operating funds.
To learn more about the Gilchrist Foundation, contact us today.