Mustang Outreach Program to Hold “Potty Party” to Help Expenses at New Location
Written & Submitted by: Stephanie Baker, Volunteer Executive Director
The Mustang Outreach Program, a local 501 c.3 non-profit music education organization, is pleased to announce its growth over the last several years has enabled them to pursue its own location at Seagate North Shopping Center in Kill Devil Hills.
MOP relies on financial support from those who believe in the power of music. Their new home at Sea Gate North Shopping Center requires some construction updates including an ADA compliant bathroom. Therefore, on Sunday, September 15th Mustang Outreach Program will hold a fundraising event to help supplement the costs at the Roadside Bar and Grill in Duck from 3 to 6 pm.
The Roadside Bar and Grill is proud to sponsor this event and will be providing the location and BBQ that will be sold. Several local musicians, including MOP instructors and students, will perform live music. Additionally, there will be a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle. There is a suggested admission donation of $10 for all those age 14 or older. All proceeds will go towards the needed updates.
Established in 2012, this is the first time the organization will have a permanent home of their own, allowing for more students to take part in their rock-and-roll based music program. MOP President and Co-founder Mike Dianna says, “I am pleased that our grassroots organization has grown over the years, giving more local kids the opportunity to take part in a music education experience unlike any other on the beach. We had started this organization to provide local kids a venue in which they could learn to play and perform music that they wouldn’t ordinarily learn in school, supplementing their in-school music experience. We have seen our kids develop their talents over the years to go on to play in front of live audiences locally and regionally with the skills and self-confidence gained in this program.”
Mustang Outreach Program first started in 2012 with a small group of 8 kids and since its inception has served more than 80 local youth. The program provides scholarships each year to families who need financial assistance. The 2018-2019 program enrollment was 26 kids, ages 8 to 16. Co-founder and Music Director Ruth Wyand, an award winning, internationally touring musician works to ensure the students in the program receive top-notch group music lessons including practical instrument instruction, music theory, music history, solo performance, sound engineering and stage management. “I love my job,” says Ruth, “Teaching kids to play and perform music is one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done, knowing it is something they will carry through their whole lives. Music is something that can transform a person and really open doors.”
Additional information regarding the Mustang Outreach Program and this event can be found on its Facebook page and on the website: www.mustangoutreachprogramobx.org. Any questions may be emailed to mustangoutreachprogram@gmail.com.