Whitefish Education Foundation surpasses $400,000 goal for Make Music Resonate campaign

The Whitefish Education Foundation officially exceeded its $400,000 fundraising goal for the Make Music Resonate campaign, reaching $402,124 in gifts and pledges to support music education in Whitefish schools. 

The campaign drew overwhelming support from the community, with most donations coming directly from individuals and families in Whitefish, as well as supporters from outside the area who believe in the value of music education. Alongside community grants, restaurant fundraising nights, roundup campaigns, and local business support, public giving became the driving force behind the campaign’s success. 

“This campaign reflects what this community believes in,” said Jesse Kuntz, executive director of the Whitefish Education Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to every donor, volunteer, educator, family, and supporter who helped make this possible. Because of this generosity, more students will have access to the opportunities music education provides.” 

The campaign will provide new, high-quality instruments and equipment for school music programs, replacing aging instruments that have been in use for decades. 

“We want to express our sincere gratitude to Jesse Kuntz and the Whitefish Education Foundation board for their tireless efforts to make this 20-year dream a reality,” said Mark McCrady, Whitefish Middle School band director. “The success of this campaign is a complete gamechanger for our music programs. Replacing outdated instruments with quality equipment removes barriers and gives generations of young musicians the chance to reach their full potential.” 

McCrady also thanked school administrators, foundation board members, the team at Whitefish Community Foundation, matching donors Jim and Lisa Stack, the families of Tom Quinn and Russ and Mary Jane Street, Steve Lull, Brogan Thomsen, local businesses, and the many private donors who contributed to the effort. 

At Whitefish Middle and High Schools, the impact is already being felt. 

“This is truly a formative moment for our instrumental program,” said Matt King, Whitefish High School band director. “Not only has this campaign transformed our aging instrument inventory, but the endowment also ensures these needs can be met well into the future. Our students can now focus on making music instead of struggling with worn-out instruments. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who supported this campaign.” 

Donations will continue to be accepted through June 12. Additional contributions will help establish a permanent endowment through the Whitefish Community Foundation to support future generations of student musicians in Whitefish band and orchestra programs.   

To learn more, visit: whitefisheducationfoundation.org/mmr.