Through the Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund (FRWFF), the DeKalb County Community Foundation provides grants to nonprofit and public sector organizations primarily in Illinois involving music education.
Donor Name: DeKalb County Community Foundation
State: Illinois
County: DeKalb County (IL)
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 03/01/2026
Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000
Grant Duration: 1 Year
Details:
The local heritage of Wurlitzer, preference is given to 501(c)3 organizations and public sector organizations serving DeKalb County residents.
Priorities
FRWFF Board of Advisors believes that it is necessary to invest its limited funds where they will have the greatest impact on music education. Priority will be given to:
- Assist organizations to better respond to clearly defined unmet music education needs of underserved populations.
- Programs and projects that enhance cooperation and collaboration among organizations.
- Support school music departments to provide a positive music experience for students.
- Build upon existing music education programs.
- Support new music education projects.
- Help eligible organizations provide music education scholarships.
- Leveraging funds and in-kind support, such as using “seed” money, “match” and “challenge” grants and funds from multiple sources.
Grant Period
- The average grant amount range for this program is $1,500 – $12,500.
- Grants are one-time awards supporting specific projects to be completed within one year.
Eligibility Criteria
- School Districts – Within school districts, the above-mentioned guidelines apply to each school building. For example, each elementary, middle, and high school building is eligible to receive one grant per two grant cycles or one grant per calendar year. To ensure that each individual school grant request is aligned to the district’s strategic priorities and initiatives, each grant application must include a letter of support from the district office or school principal, including a narrative explaining how the project fits within the district plans. This letter is also required when any 501(c)3 organization (e.g. PTO, Music Booster Club) is applying on behalf of a school district.
- Higher Education – Within a community college or university, each “department” is eligible to receive one grant per two grant cycles, or one grant per calendar year.
For more information, visit DCCF.
