Pius X Band Receives Support for New Uniforms
Pius X High School’s band has received funding from two local area foundations and the support of almost 100 parents, alumni, and friends on Giving Tuesday which was held on December 1, 2015. The grants and donations, which total more than $113,000, will be used to purchase new marching and concert band uniforms.
Giving Tuesday, held annually on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is a global philanthropy effort in which charities, families, businesses, and students around the world are asked to come together for one common purpose: to celebrate generosity and to give back.
The Pius family – alumni, parents, and friends – embraced the spirit of Giving Tuesday and donated more than $13,000. Combined with the recent grants received from the Dillon Foundation and the Pearle Francis Finigan Foundation, Pius X is only $15,000 away from the needed $128,000 to purchase the new uniforms.
“The Dillon Foundation and the Pearle Francis Finigan Foundation have been very generous to us,” shares Pius X Development Director Michelle Birkel. “We are so grateful for their on-going support of our school, our students, and our academic programs.”
The Pius X band program has grown to include more than 140 students. Increased interest has resulted in the need to replace worn and dated uniforms. Repairing and mending efforts have become difficult as participation in the band has grown, and as uniforms have reached the end of their useable life. The average life of a band uniform is eight to 10 years with the current uniforms being 11-years old.
“Our band students work very hard, often practicing early in the morning before school starts,” comments Principal Tom Korta. “Band and our music program are an important part of our academic curriculum and the educational development of students. Band teaches many skills that directly relate to other academic areas, especially study, communication, and cognitive skills, and to work effectively with others.”
The Dillon and Finigan grants, along with the Giving Tuesday support, will allow Pius X to purchase 175 new uniforms. This will improve the availability and variety of sizes and allow all band members to wear identical and appropriately sized uniforms. Similar to other bands in the Lincoln area, Pius X plans to utilize a two coat uniform - with one coat for use during marching months and one coat intended for concert band. The two coat system will save students and parents the cost of purchasing special concert attire.
The Pius X band students, instructors, and parents are now researching other fund raising opportunities to raise the remaining funds needed to purchase the new uniforms. If you would like to support this effort, you may donate, safely and securely, via text (BAND to 71777) or online at www.piusx.net. Gifts may also be sent to Pius X High School - Band, 6000 A St., Lincoln, NE, 68510.
