From Music to Mentorship: How Rock to the Future Shaped My Path

My name is Jose Padilla, and I am a senior at Kensington High School. I’ve been part of Rock to the Future for two years. I started by playing the piano, and now I’m learning the drums. While I’m not a student ambassador, I’ve naturally taken on a leadership role within the program as an upperclassman.

When I first joined, I was amazed at how welcoming this community was. Even though I joined later than most students, I felt accepted right away by everyone involved. Many of my friends were already in the program, and they helped me adjust by showing me around and introducing me to the space. The mentors were also incredibly supportive. They helped me catch up on learning the piano and encouraged me to get involved in activities. Through this, I was able to strengthen existing friendships and make so many new ones.

One of the best things about Rock to the Future is that I’ve always felt like I could be myself. I never had to pretend to be someone I’m not. I could make the kind of jokes I’d normally save for my close friends, and I felt comfortable being social without any anxiety. This community understands me so well, and it inspired me to commit to its mission of providing youth like me with the skills to succeed in music.

The education and experiences I’ve gained from this program mean so much to me. My only regret is not joining sooner. One of the reasons this community is so special to me is the connection I’ve built with my mentors and the friendships I’ve made. My mentors don’t just feel like teachers—they feel like friends. We’ve spent countless hours laughing, bonding over music and our favorite bands, and working on improving my skills, whether on piano or drums. My friends in the program have also been a big part of my growth. We’ve made music together and helped each other improve our craft.

Another reason I value this program so much is how understanding and flexible it has been with my schedule. I’ve been involved in multiple extracurricular activities, including playing on the volleyball team. During volleyball season, the Rock to the Future team worked with me to ensure I could balance both commitments. They supported me in making it to volleyball practice and then leaving early with my coach’s permission so I could still participate in the music program.

Thank you for your support of Rock to the Future. It’s because of you that we can continue doing great things as a community. I hope my story inspires you to keep supporting the students and this program. I’m so thankful for being welcomed as my true self, and I wouldn’t change a single thing about this amazing community.

Support our mission today! Be an Instrument for Change
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Kennedy Violins Donates 100+ Guitars To Rock to the Future DO

Fall is in the air. The leaves are changing color, the temperature is dropping, and our programs are back in full force! That means there is a new batch of students excited to learn how to play the guitar, and thanks to one company, we’ve got new instruments for them! Kennedy Violins, a leading provider of high-quality string instruments located in Washington State, has made a generous donation of 102 acoustic guitars to our programs. The donation is valued at over $35,000 and means that we have guitars for students at multiple of our locations to use. 

Providing instruments for our students has been a staple of our programming since the beginning. One of our goals at Rock to the Future is to break down barriers that traditionally would stop students from being able to play music. We provide all our students with the instruments they need to complete our programs, thanks to donations from organizations like Kennedy Violins, as well as other organizations and individuals throughout the community. It is also worth noting that our programs require no prior musical experience or auditions, other traditional barriers to music education. 

Kennedy Violins also believes in the transformative power of music. With this donation, the company aims to support Rock to the Future’s mission of breaking down those barriers to music education, and fostering creativity and confidence in children and teens in every neighborhood of the city. 

“This generous donation from Kennedy Violins will provide countless students with the tools they need to learn, express themselves, and grow through music,” said Josh Craft, Rock to the Future’s Chief Music Officer. “We’re also excited to provide students with their own guitar to have at home!”

This partnership between Kennedy Violins and Rock to the Future highlights the shared belief that music can be a powerful force for positive change. Through this donation, the organizations hope to inspire a new generation of musicians and leaders, enriching communities and creating brighter futures for Philadelphia’s youth.

But just because we’ve got these guitars, doesn’t mean our job is over. Our programs serve over 1100 students annually and they need instruments! If you have an old guitar/keyboard/drumset gathering dust in your basement, let us know. We can get it into the hands of a student who is going to use it to start their musical journey.  

Learn more about Kennedy Violins! https://kennedyviolins.com

Fill out our Donate An Instrument form and we’ll be in touch! https://rocktothefuture.org/donate/donate-an-instrument/

Building Community Through Music

Written By Daniel Lord

Community can mean a lot of things. It can be the people who live in the houses around you, or it could be a group of friends scattered across the world. It could be the people you go to school or work with, or a canceled television show starring Donald Glover and Joel McHale. 

When I think about community, I think about the ecosystem a person builds around themselves, their support system. A community is a safe space for people to explore themselves and thrive. A sense of belonging is crucial to a person's development and self-realization, but even with how diverse the City of Philadelphia is, it can be easy to feel isolated.

Rock to the Future’s MusiCommunity programs are designed to help break down those barriers. Our programs bring students from different parts of Philly together to find common ground, and allow students to find others who resonate at the same frequency as they do. These programs are free to attend and all the musical instruments are provided, allowing us to give opportunities to our students that they otherwise might not have the resources to pursue.

The rhythmic pounding of drums has brought people together since the beginning of time, and it’s still the case in community centers across the city. Take a peek inside of our programs and you'll find students coming together to collaborate with each other and create something bigger than the sum of its parts.

Our showcases give them a chance to take what they’ve been working on and show it to the rest of the world, and one of the cardinal “Rules of Rock,” is that every performance is met with applause and positive reinforcement. It takes guts to get up on that stage!

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At As I Plant This Seed we fundraised and built a recording studio that is open to the neighborhood. Students learn music production once a week and at the end of each term throw a listening party, just like some of their favorite artists.
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Students at One Art Community center learn how to play piano and also learn how to run their own DIY shows in our Concert Creators class. They host an Youth Led Open Mic aimed at teens ages 13 - 19 at the end of each term that brings in performers from across the city.
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NOMO means New Options More Opportunities and thats what our programs at the NOMO Foundation are all about.

Teens at NOMO North and South get the opportunity to learn piano or guitar, and give an in class performance at the end of each term.

We've been so excited to see what our students have been able to do at our MusiCommunity programs across the city and its been a great opportunity to expand outside of our school-based programs.

Interested in what you've read? There is still space left in some of our programs, so fill out our program interest form and a member of our team will be in touch!

I'm Interested!

Empowering Youth through Social Emotional Learning, Resource Support, and Justice Engagement

By: MJ Maggie Jaramillo, Youth Engagement Specialist

“You have me over here smiling and starting to take deep breaths, you made my day, thank you.” - Student

As I sit here reflecting on my first full year as Rock to the Future’s full-time Youth Engagement Specialist, I’m in awe of the impact we’ve made together. My name is MJ, and it’s been an honor to work within the communities we serve, amplifying the message, “Your Voice Matters.” Being full-time has allowed us to extend vital support and services within our MusiCore program and through our MusiCommunity and Justice program, driving youth success and development across the board.

Fostering Safe Spaces, Emotional Wellbeing, and Personalized Support for Youth

I enjoy bringing colorful additions to our spaces—fluffy mascots, soft slippers, and dedicated “chill zones” designed for taking breaks and checking in with each other. These elements help foster environments where “silly” is accepted and encouraged. We also use affirmation cards to help youth tap into their inner strengths, and it’s been incredible to witness their growth in confidence, whether on stage or in small group connections.

We create a space with a judgment-free zone and a 'come as you are' mentality, and the students have truly embraced this approach. I still remember the day I arrived on site and nearly intervened when a student was crying. Instead, I took a deep breath and witnessed a remarkable moment: the other youth warmly inviting their friend to embrace and express their sadness. They said, “It’s okay to cry; you don’t want to keep those emotions bottled up inside.” In a world where we often struggle to show our true selves, these young people are making groundbreaking changes by supporting one another and validating each other’s feelings

My role as a full-time Youth Engagement Specialist allows me to provide dedicated individual check-ins with each student. During these check-ins, we discuss how they are doing within the following areas: 

  • Physical health -exploring topics such as sleep hygiene and daily nutrition
  • Mental or emotional well-being - including communication on coping skills to use at the program, as well as home strategies or options in the community,
  •  Education -inquiring on whether a student feels successful in their school classes or current schedule 
  • Allowing dedicated time to sit with our youth and communicate about how they are doing and any challenges they might face. 

For students experiencing resource insecurity, I work closely with our partners to connect them and their families with additional support. And continue expanding our partnerships to support those we serve and the needs we've identified over time **You can check out our resource page, which includes after-hour safe spaces, health and wellness, mental and physical wellbeing, and more.

We also conduct self-reported Social Emotional Learning (SEL) wellbeing assessments at the beginning and end of the year. I'm proud to share that our students reported significant improvements in key SEL areas, such as confidence, understanding and managing emotions, making responsible decisions, and building and maintaining relationships. These results underscore our programs' vital role in fostering positive youth development and the importance of the environments we create to support their growth.

Supporting Justice for Youth

This year, we’ve deepened our involvement with justice-impacted youth, providing them with much-needed support and opportunities for personal growth.

  • Juvenile Justice Services Center (JJSC): We are connecting with detained youth and their families to support their release process, and inviting them into our community spaces has been both humbling and eye-opening. One of the most poignant moments of this year came when a recently released youth from JJSC reached out to invite me to her performance. Despite facing numerous obstacles, her determination to perform was inspiring. I was there to cheer her on, capturing the joy and resilience she displayed on stage. Her story is a testament to the importance of showing up for our youth and supporting them through every challenge. Another eye-opening moment was during the parent-teacher conferences and the resource fair at JJSC. Witnessing the youth excited to share the music they created and the lessons they learned through our program filled the room with joy, accomplishment, and a renewed sense of hope. It was a powerful reminder of the profound impact we have on youth, especially in spaces that are often overlooked.
  • Diversion Program: The District Attorney’s Office reached out to us to become one of their diversion partners this year. Our work with the Diversion Program has been crucial in offering a supportive community to youth who have faced legal challenges and the opportunity to get their records expunged by participating in our program. One parent from the program shared, “There is no hesitation in choosing Rock to the Future for my daughter. MJ has been here throughout this tough process, continuing to show care for our family.” This feedback reaffirms the importance of being present and engaged, especially during difficult times.
Collaborating with Community Partners and Celebrating Youth Success

Throughout the year, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with amazing community partners celebrating the successes of our youth, whether through performances or other achievements. Here are some highlights:

  • Participated in the NOMO Foundation Mental Health Fair to raise awareness for youth mental health and community care.
  • Organized the Attitude of Gratitude Giveaway, where youth selected clothing items to share with others, fostering a spirit of generosity and community.
    • A youth excitedly shared, “I can’t wait to give this to my mom, she’s going to love it.”
    • Another proudly declared, “I look beautiful,” after choosing their new outfit.
  • This year, we brought together youth from different parts of the city for our largest event, the Music for All Ball at World Cafe Live. The significance of this gathering extends beyond just a performance; it fosters connection, community, and collaboration among teens from diverse backgrounds. This unity is crucial in reducing intercommunity violence by promoting understanding and shared experiences. During the event, the youth-led an inspiring affirmation music experience, engaging the audience in affirmations like "I am Light, I am Love, I am Born to Shine," reinforcing their self-worth and collective power.
  • Our programs welcomed students who hadn’t initially identified music as their primary interest. The impact of this program goes far beyond just learning music—it helps students reduce anxiety, build community, and gain confidence, creating a safe and supportive environment. The transformation we witnessed as these new students embraced music and connected with other students was a powerful reminder of how inclusion and creativity can foster personal growth and a sense of belonging.

Philadelphia has experienced many challenges, and our youth are deeply affected. Despite the difficulties, I am proud and humbled to serve our students and be part of this greater mission to support bright pathways for youth. We use music as a bridge while showing up for them in critical ways that foster their development. They deserve the chance to learn music, express themselves through art, have trusted mentors, and access tools for emotional well-being. They deserve safety, community, support during resource insecurity, second chances, and advocacy for their justice. The impact of our work strikes chords of joy and creates pathways for their success. Join us in driving this impact and making a difference for Philly youth through the magic of music. 

See the Full Impact Report
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Rock to the Future Partners with District Attorney’s Office to Support Youth Diversion

Rock to the Future is excited to announce a new Diversion Program in partnership with Philadelphia's District Attorney's Office. This innovative program bridges the gap between music education and youth empowerment, providing young individuals with opportunities for personal growth, goal-setting, and talent development. By participating in Rock to the Future’s transformative musical and youth development programs, youth referred to the program can have their records expunged, paving the way for a brighter future.

The Diversion Program works through a volunteer-based Youth Aid Panel, which refers teens to Rock to the Future’s out-of-school time programs located in Germantown. These panels play a crucial role in the restorative process, bringing together the juvenile's family, the crime victim, and community members to create a plan that everyone agrees upon. This plan holds the juvenile accountable while helping them avoid a criminal record that could negatively impact their future. Successful completion of the plan results in the expungement of the juvenile’s record.

Rock to the Future’s CEO and Founder, Jessica Craft, emphasizes the importance of providing young people with opportunities for growth and development. “Young people deserve opportunities for personal growth and development to achieve long-term success,” says Craft. “It’s critical that we work together to provide teens with alternatives to support pathways to peace instead of violence.”

Looking ahead, there are plans to expand this valuable program to Rock to the Future’s other service areas, including Kensington, Hunting Park, and West Philadelphia, by the end of 2024. Through this partnership, Rock to the Future and the District Attorney’s Office aim to create positive change in the lives of Philadelphia’s youth, offering them a chance to overcome their past and build a successful future.

Celebrating and Supporting the Class of 2024

Support Our Higher Education Fund Today

Graduation is a time of celebration and new beginnings for high school seniors. However, for many talented and driven students, the path to higher education can come with challenges.

Rock to the Future uses music as a pathway to build trust and community with youth, breaking down barriers and empowering students to reach their full potential.

Through college trips, guest speakers, application and scholarship writing support, access to essential resources, personal encouragement, and the Higher Education Fund - which provides laptops and scholarships for graduates – we aim to make higher education more accessible and attainable for deserving students who may not have the financial means or support network to pursue their dreams. Our students pursue careers in education, technology, business, music, culinary arts, and so much more.

Support Our Higher Education Scholarship and Year End Showcase

Through our Higher Education Fund, graduating seniors receive a scholarship of $1,500. These scholarships help alleviate the burden of upfront costs such as tuition expenses, textbooks, and other educational expenses. By removing financial barriers, we enable students to focus on their studies and fully engage in the college experience. With your support, we will expand the reach of these scholarships and provide opportunities for even more deserving students.

In today's digital age, having the right tools is crucial for academic achievement. Our Higher Education Fund also provides graduating seniors with brand-new MacBooks, ensuring they have the necessary technology to thrive in college and beyond. These laptops become powerful tools for research, online collaboration, and accessing educational resources. By donating to our fund, you directly contribute to a graduating senior's ability to excel in their studies and successfully navigate the digital landscape of higher education.

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The impact of the Higher Education Fund goes far beyond financial assistance and laptops. By investing in these students, you are investing in their futures and the future of our communities. Our graduating seniors break the cycle of limited opportunities and create positive change in their lives and communities. Through higher education, they gain knowledge, skills, and networks that can lead to rewarding careers, economic mobility, leadership roles, and the ability to give back.

To support our Higher Education Fund and make a difference in the lives of graduating seniors, please visit https://givebutter.com/YES24 today. Your generosity can help shape a brighter future for these deserving students and our community as a whole.

Together, let's empower and uplift the next generation of leaders and change-makers.

Support Our Higher Education Fund Today

Rock to the Future students are Black, Brown and Bound for Berklee!

Rock to the Future is stoked to share that not one but TWO Rock to the Future students were accepted into Black, Brown and Bound for Berklee!

The program, also known as B4, is "an immersive and fully funded in-person program which is designed to provide a transformative experience to talented scholars... by offering them a glimpse into the life of a Berklee student.”

A massive shoutout to Massai and Brooklynn for earning spots in the program. Out of thousands of applicants, only 40 students made the cut. Massai and Brooklynn will attend the in-person, fly-in program designed to provide talented scholars from historically underrepresented communities with a transformative “day in the life” of a Berklee student experience.

Congratulations, Massai and Brooklynn! We're so proud.

As teens move into the second half of their high school education, they may find the road to higher education easier to navigate with support and encouragement. Rock to the Future remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting academic pursuits through the ongoing stewardship of its Higher Education Fund, which directly contributes to a graduating senior's ability to excel in their studies and successfully navigate college and trade school.

With the support of generous donors, Rock to the Future aims to raise $10,000 to expand the reach of these scholarships. Rock to the Future's Higher Education Fund empowers students to chart their own path towards the future they want.

Summer MusicWithMe Dates Added!

At Rock to the Future, we believe in the power of music to create pathways to peaceful ecosystems and holistic wellness. That’s why we’re excited to announce summer workshop dates for MusicWithMe, an intergenerational music program designed to foster bonds between youth in grades 2-12 and their trusted adult companions. Our inaugural program kicks off with monthly drums and percussion workshops, creating a rhythmic space for shared learning and creative expression. After a successful pilot program, we’ve added new summer dates for our MusicWithMe workshop!

Registration is open for our upcoming May, June, July and August workshops! Sign up as a pair here.

New MusicWithMe Dates:
April 26
May 10
June 21
July 19
August 16

Time:
4:00-5:00pm (2nd-5th grade) 5:00-6:00pm (6th-12th grade)

Location:
NoMo South 925 N Broad St Philadelphia, PA

No musical experience? No problem! MusicWithMe is all about breaking barriers. We provide the instruments, the beats, and even snacks for our participants. It’s a unique opportunity for Philadelphia’s youth and their designated guardians to learn together while creating new memories.

Ready to join the fun? Simply register as a pair here. Keep in mind that space is limited – sign up today!

MusicWithMe invites pairs of one adult (18+) and one student to join our free monthly workshops. These sessions, held one Friday a month, offer time slots from 4-5pm (grades 2-5) or 5-6pm (grades 6-12). Register here.

5 Questions with Khemist, Music for All Ball’s Headliner

Rock to the Future received the opportunity to pick Khemist’s brain. Khemist is the headlining performer for our upcoming Music for All Ball. This year, we celebrate what it means to be “Born to Shine”. For Khemist, it includes “acknowledging the great people who raised me and all that they have overcome.”

We believe that through the transformative power of music, economic empowerment, and resource support, we cultivate pathways to brighter futures — because every young person deserves the chance to shine Join us in celebrating our students’ shine at our annual fundraiser, Music for All Ball, on April 20, 2024, at World Cafe Live. Buy tickets here.

Read our interview with Khemist below – and then promptly head to your favorite streaming service and listen to his latest work. Trust us – you will be floored.

MusicWithMe: Our New Intergenerational Music Program!


We’re thrilled to share the exciting news that Rock to the Future is launching a groundbreaking initiative – MusicWithMe!

Made possible with the generous support of PECO, this program is not just about music; it’s about bringing generations together through creativity and connective community support.

At Rock to the Future, we believe in the power of music to create pathways to peaceful ecosystems and holistic wellness. That’s why we’re introducing MusicWithMe, an intergenerational music program designed to foster bonds between youth in grades 2-12 and their trusted adult companions. Our inaugural program kicks off with monthly drums and percussion workshops, creating a rhythmic space for shared learning and creative expression. After a successful pilot program, we’ve added new dates for our MusicWithMe workshop!

Registration is open for our upcoming March, April and June workshops! Sign up as a pair here.



Classes will take place at the North Philly location of NoMo Foundation (New Options, More Opportunities) at 925 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA.

MusicWithMe invites pairs of one adult (18+) and one student (grades 2-12) to join our free monthly workshops. These sessions, held one Friday a month, offer time slots from 4-5pm (grades 2-5) or 5-6pm (grades 6-12) based on your student’s grade.

No musical experience? No problem! MusicWithMe is all about breaking barriers. We provide the instruments, the beats, and even snacks for our participants. It’s a unique opportunity for Philadelphia’s youth and their designated guardians to learn together while creating new memories.

Ready to join the fun? Simply register as a pair here. Keep in mind that space is limited – sign up today!