McNary High School’s band program is counting on the generosity of Keizer families to keep its music education thriving. On Saturday, Sept. 26, students will go door‑to‑door between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., asking neighbors for cash or soda‑can donations. The effort is part of the school’s annual Band Day fundraiser, a tradition that helps cover instrument repairs, sheet‑music purchases, and travel costs for competitions.
How the fundraiser works
Each band member has been assigned a specific route in the surrounding neighborhoods. Volunteers will carry collection bags and a simple pledge sheet, allowing residents to contribute whatever they can. In addition to the door‑to‑door effort, families may drop off donations directly at McNary High School’s main office during regular school hours.
Community response
Jenni Barker, a parent volunteer who helped organize the event, said in an email that the program has already raised $20,000 toward its goal. “The support we’ve seen from Keizer families reaffirms how much the community values music education,” Barker wrote. She added that every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference for the students.
Why music matters
Research consistently shows that participation in school music programs strengthens academic performance, improves discipline, and fosters teamwork. For many families in Keizer, the band is a source of pride and a vital outlet for students to develop leadership skills. The fundraiser ensures that the program can continue offering these benefits without placing a heavy financial burden on any single family.
Ways to help
- Donate cash: Any amount helps purchase new reeds, strings, or repair equipment.
- Donate soda cans: Collected cans are sold to recycling centers, generating additional funds.
- Volunteer: Parents can join the door‑to‑door teams or assist with sorting donations at the school.
All contributions are tax‑deductible, and donors will receive a receipt for their records. The school plans to publicly acknowledge top contributors at the upcoming Band Day concert.
Looking ahead
The Band Day concert, scheduled for early October, will showcase the hard work of the students and celebrate the community’s support. Organizers hope the fundraiser will not only meet its financial target but also strengthen the bond between the school and Keizer residents.
For more information or to arrange a drop‑off, families can contact the McNary High School music department at (503) 555‑0123 or email [email protected].
Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.
