The Youth in Harmony Fund was established by Alan Wotherspoon in response to his love of music and his commitment to the learning and empowerment of youth.
As a high school teacher and principal, Alan gained a deeper understanding of the power of music in the development of young minds and hearts. He was privileged to accompany music students on many music trips and saw firsthand how music promotes healthy social interactions such as teamwork, sharing, mutual respect and praise.
After he retired, Alan became chaplain to the magnificent choir at All Saints’ Anglican Church in Peterborough which included more than a dozen young singers. Alan also worked with Kawartha Youth Orchestra leaders and assisted in the delivery of “Upbeat! Downtown,” an after-school program designed for elementary students in Peterborough that builds social and emotional strength and resiliency through music. Grants from this fund support vocal or instrumental music programs geared to young people. Particular attention is given to programs seeking to remove financial barriers to participation. It is Alan’s hope that others who are inspired by music will consider supporting “Youth in Harmony.”
“The moment a child in poverty learns to play an instrument they are no longer poor; they become a child in progress.” – Maestro Jose Abreu, founder of the El Sistema music movement