Crescendo Foundation Created To Support District 6 Music Programs

With a love for music started by his Mom and a desire to give back to a community that has given him so much, Greeley Realtor/Musician, John DeWitt, has created the Crescendo Foundation to support music programs for students in Greeley-Evans School District 6. 

“My love of music started with my Mom, Connie Newlin, making me take piano lessons at age 7. It seemed that everybody on my Mom’s side of the family was really talented, from Mom playing piano at church, to Great Grandpa Barney writing and publishing a song during World War II, to my Great Aunt Shirley playing piano and organ at silent movies. Performing music runs deep in my family,” DeWitt said. 

After DeWitt lost his Mom in 2021, it took some time to process. One day he thought, why not give back and create something for the community in her honor? Supporting District 6 schools rose to the top of his list. Both of DeWitt’s children attended and graduated from District 6 schools. “When my kids were in school, they were both involved in music programs,” DeWitt said. “I remember them constantly asking to buy rosin, strings, reeds, etc. I was fortunate to be able to buy those things, but what about the students who couldn’t afford it? I know for a fact that teachers were spending Page 2 their own money to help but looking back now, I know many students lost the opportunity to participate due to financial obstacles.” 

DeWitt created the Crescendo Foundation in October of 2023 to help remove those financial obstacles for District 6 students. Resources provided will support the day-to-day needs of musicians in District 6 music programs. “The Crescendo Foundation is excited to make our first donation and look forward to growing our support in years to come,” DeWitt stated. “We hope it’s enough to make a difference and to keep musicians learning a craft that can be so important to their education and in life.” 

District 6 Specials Coordinator, Kathy Azari, knows what a difference these funds will make. “We are fortunate to have supportive community members like John DeWitt. His donation will offset the cost of much-needed supplies and accessories that our critical to students participation in music,” Azari said. “Through this donation, music can be more accessible to all of our students.” 

Donations from the Crescendo Foundation will be made to the Success Foundation, the fundraising arm of District 6. “We are honored to be able to work with a local foundation that has such a personal connection to our community and passion for our students,” said Julie Hill, Success Foundation Director. “Music program support is one of our current fundraising initiatives so the timing is perfect!” 

For more information about The Crescendo Foundation, please contact John DeWitt at 970-302- 7104 or johndewitt67@gmail.com.