Local Nonprofit Raises $2,000 for HBCU Marching Band

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Sept. 8, 2021 - PRLog -- Today J. McCall Foundation announces its first scholarship disbursement. On September 12, J. McCall Foundation board members will award scholarships to deserving HBCU band members at Alabama State University in Montgomery, AL.

While Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) bands are known for their high-energy, show-stopping entertainment, they also afford an opportunity for the band members to travel, gain national TV exposure (as seen on Bama State Style and the Aretha Franklin Tribute), embrace teamwork, master the art of balancing priorities and learn other critical life principles. According to an NBC Nightly News (https://www.nbcnews.com/nightly-news/video/alabama-state-university-s-mighty-marching-band-1340396099586) statement, "The Mighty Marching Hornets are one of the best and most competitive college marching bands, and it's hard work that allows them to keep that title." Drum majors, in particular, fill a different role than those of other marching bands which limit the position to controlling tempo and managing field direction. The role of HBCU drum majors evolved from that of leaders of bands in black minstrel parades who were performers themselves. Today, drum majors lead the band with their 90-degree precision marching, back-bending half-time entrance, and contemporary dance artistry. In addition, drum majors arrive early and stay late to make sure each individual, section, and the band as a whole is ready to deliver their best performance – one band, one sound.

J. McCall Foundation acknowledges the commitment of this elite group and strives to provide resources to HBCU band members. While HBCU band members commit a significant amount of time rehearsing and performing, many still have jobs to offset personal and band-related expenses. Even the few band members who have full scholarships tend to incur other expenses that must be paid out of pocket.

While the 2021 J. McCall Foundation scholarship will go to an Alabama State University band member, the goal is to expand to other HBCU bands in subsequent years. According to President of J McCall Foundation, Nikki Porter, "Our September 12 scholarship disbursement is a starting point. We want to expand to other communities while maintaining a presence at ASU. We also hope to collaborate with other entities with similar goals to make a greater impact even faster."

About J McCall Foundation

J McCall Foundation is a 501c3 created to commemorate James E McCall, a former drum major at Alabama State University with a passion for helping the youth. The nonprofit's efforts will go towards helping students who are participating in an HBCU marching band. The nonprofit's goals will expand to include those who share interests similar to James McCall - including fishing, kayaking, and landscaping. To learn more and make a tax-deductible contribution, visit www.jmccallfoundation.org.