This year’s recipients are Ms. Samia Clark – Frederick Douglas H/S (Howard University Enrollee), Ms. Jade Lockard – Atlanta’s Girls School (Spelman College Enrollee), Mr. Brandon Hardy – Columbia H/S (University of Notre Dame Enrollee) and Ade Afon – Grayson H/S (University of Georgia Enrollee).

C.L.A.S.S. is a need-based scholarship, which awards educational grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, to graduating high school seniors throughout the state of Georgia. It's designed to give students in need of financial assistance the opportunity to further their education at a two or four-year college and/or technical institution.  The goal is to try to ease some of the long-term financial burdens associated with continued education.

Make A Difference Foundation, Inc. (MADF), has awarded a grant to the E. J. Swint Elementary Music Department for the purchase of new percussion instruments.  E. J. Swint Elementary is a Title I Distinguished school located in Jonesboro, Georgia.  E. J. Swint’s vision is to educate students to become globally competitive, productive, ethical, and responsible citizens.

With an average class size of 25 students and no drums, the drumline used their drumsticks to play cadences on classroom floors and performance halls. “I think drums are a good instrument that can be used to teach students music concepts such as rhythms and sight-reading music,” says Swint Elementary Music Director Jimmie Howell Jr. As a result of this donation, the school will be able to purchase snare drums, bass drums, cymbals, djembes and congas.  This will allow the students to properly learn the art, as well as, perform together throughout the city and county.

“Having studied music myself in elementary, middle and high school, I’m well aware of the benefits of quality music education,” states MADF Executive Director Donovan R. Quary, Sr.; “and research shows that music education can help a child’s overall development in the areas of reading, math, critical thinking, as well as, improve their leadership skills”. 

MADF is honored to continue our community support and furthering our vision of ensuring all children have an equal opportunity to succeed at achieving their dreams. To date, MADF as awarded over $62,000 to local non-profits and organizations through various community outreach initiatives.   

We're proud to announce that Make A Difference Foundation, Inc. (MADF) and Kroger have partnered to make "Making A Difference" a little bit easier.  Now, through the Kroger Community Rewards Program, each time you shop at Kroger and swipe your Kroger Plus Card proceeds from your purchase will go to support MADF and it's mission... to ensure all children have an equal opportunity to succeed at achieving their dreams!  Enrollment in the Community Rewards Program is quick and easy:

• Visit www.Kroger.com/communityrewards
• Click on the "Enroll" button to register your Kroger Plus Card
• Enter MADF's program participation number "36704" in the search bar
• Select Make A Difference Foundation, then click "Enroll" to complete

Individual purchases will begin counting towards MADF within 7-10 days of registering your card.   Who knew a routine trip to the grocery store could mean so much.  As always, we thank you in advance for supporting our efforts to "Make A Difference"