HOME OF SALUTING AMERICA'S BAND DIRECTORS™
Financial support
The package prices for the Saluting America's Band Directors project were set to provide an amazing and unforgettable experience to the band directors who come from all over the country to march in the historic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The fees cover the marchers' lodging, several meals, ground transportation, a special banquet dinner as well as several other activities. We believe that the pricing is a great value for this unprecedented experience but also understand that the cost may be a challenge for many band directors. Therefore, we'd like to provide some suggestions for directors to consider to raise the funds necessary for the trip.
Approach your administration/principal/dean/district leadership
School districts may underwrite part or the total cost of the trip for their band directors as a way to recognize and reward their service. Having their band director participate in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will be a moment of intense pride for these organizations, one which they may point to in their own local communications. There is a link below to a downloadable flyer with complete information you may give to your administration. In addition, we have posted a letter written by Dr. Dan Ross, retired school principal and superintendent to his fellow administrators endorsing this event. This is a Word document for you to download, personalize with your own administrator's name and your preferred gender pronouns, and then send to your own administrator. The words and phrases to customize are shown in red; once you personalize them, change their color to black.
Work with your band booster organization
Your band boosters can be a great resource for helping you to get to New York City. Having just a few fundraisers, bake sales and car washes can very quickly raise funds for your trip.
Create a GoFundMe campaign
Several band directors have found success raising money with a GoFundMe campaign. Create the campaign and place its link on your Facebook and Twitter pages.
Use your band's alumni Facebook page
If your band has an alumni website or Facebook page, post your story there and ask for financial assistance.
Speak with your local newspaper
Community and local newspapers are always looking for great human interest stories. Your's can be one of those stories! Here are some examples from our Rose Parade experience:
https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2020/01/13/lhs-band-director-will-head-to-2021-rose-bowl/
Below is a Word template of a local news release you are welcome to use to share your acceptance news to your local paper. Just fill in the areas which are in bracketed red type with information pertaining to you. Then send it out to your local newspaper, TV station or other media.
Here are several ways to raise funds for your trip to New York City!