Baltimore's Marching Elite Faces Funding Crisis, Risking Youth Support
A Baltimore youth programme that uses music and marching arts to support young people is facing financial challenges. The Marching Elite Foundation, founded in 2006, helps participants aged 4 to 24 who have been involved in the justice system or need a creative outlet. Now, shrinking funds could reduce the number of children and young adults it can serve this summer. Dennis Lee Jr. started the Marching Elite Foundation to teach music, career skills, and life lessons. The programme offers instruments, instruction, and year-round activities to keep young people engaged. Many participants, like Kamari Weaver, joined five years ago to stay focused and avoid trouble.
The foundation relies on support from the Baltimore Children and Youth Fund (BCYF) to run its summer activities. But funding cuts threaten its ability to help as many young people as before. Lee Jr. has urged the community to back programmes that keep youth safe during the summer months.
For some, the programme has made a real difference. Aniyah Bess, a leader in the band, said dancing and performing improved her mental health. The foundation’s mix of music, creativity, and mentorship aims to give young people a positive direction. Without more funding, the Marching Elite Foundation may have to turn away participants this summer. The programme’s focus on music, discipline, and life skills has helped many young people over the years. Organisers hope the community will step in to keep its doors open for those who need it most.
