RED BANK, NJ
Red Bank, NJ is home to a historic music scene, known for producing jazz legend Count Basie, among others.
But children growing up in Red Bank today face challenges. More than 80 percent of the community's public school students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.
Play It Forward is now in its third year of operating free afterschool music classes for middle school children in the community.
Classes are held at the historic Woman's Club in downtown Red Bank.
Current courses include "Introduction to Piano" and "Singing & Songwriting".
All courses are taught by music majors at Red Bank Regional High School's Visual & Performing Arts Academy.
Classes are organized with the support and partnership of Project Write Now, a community outreach program for underserved groups.