Amplifying Community Impact
The Community Impact Grants Initiative
Launched through the initial support of the Elvina Pearce Education Fund, The Frances Clark Center introduced the inaugural Community Impact Grants Initiative, a national program supporting inclusive, community-driven projects in piano education. These grants, ranging from $500 to $2,500, empower individuals and organizations whose work expands access, fosters inclusion, and strengthens community engagement through piano teaching and learning.
In 2025, grants supported teachers nationwide, including:
Kelly Hooper (Allentown, PA):
Creating inclusive recitals for neurodiverse students.
Zaiba Sheikh (Charlotte, NC):
Launching a community piano lab pairing early-career teachers with at-risk youth.
Raphaelita Justice (Pottstown, PA):
Establishing free group piano classes at the public library.
Penny Lazarus (Lowell, MA):
Hosting Fun Friday, uniting young pianists and refugee families through global music.
With growing momentum from educators across the country, the Community Impact Grants Initiative will continue to expand, providing new opportunities for teachers to enrich lives and build stronger communities through the power of music. With continued donor support, this initiative will reach even more educators and communities in the years ahead.
We are grateful to our community of donors and families whose generosity empowers these grants and helps ensure that music education remains accessible and inclusive for all.
Piano educator Penny Lazarus shares how her Community Impact Grant is helping young pianists and refugee families connect through music.
“It has been an honor to lead a dedicated cohort of piano teachers, all of whom are deeply committed to advancing piano education and creating meaningful change in their communities. Thanks to this initiative, educators across the country are expanding their impact through music and community engagement.”
~ Dr. Leah Claiborne, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion