Young Musicians Unite, a free music education provider, is entering its largest year of growth, with a $600,000 investment from the State of Florida helping fund the expansion in Miami-Dade County.
The state money supports the organization’s Student Retention and Engagement Initiative and will pay for music teachers in schools. The nonprofit says it now reaches more than 21,000 students each week across 131 schools in the county.
State Sen. Alexis Calatayud was recognized as guest of honor on October 8 at Taste of YMU: Strings & Spirits, a gathering hosted by Nancy and Stephen Bernstein at their Miami Beach home. She received a ceremonial check for the funding during the event, which drew philanthropic, civic and cultural leaders.
Founder and CEO Sammy Gonzalez Zeira said the organization is preparing for the largest year of growth in its history. Young Musicians Unite has a goal of raising $3 million to reach 27,628 students in 171 schools by the 2027-2028 school year.
The organization has served more than 71,404 students since it was founded in 2013. Its programs run across elementary, middle and high school grades, and are free to students.
