Music Is Unity hits halfway mark on 75-day foster youth fundraiser

Music Is Unity says its 75-Day Hard Fundraiser has reached the halfway point, with a goal of raising $75,000 in 75 days to support foster youth programs nationwide. The milestone arrives during Black Music Month and kicks off a donor giveaway tied to donations through June 24.

Why it matters: - Music Is Unity is raising money for organizations that support young people aging out of foster care, a group that often faces homelessness, unemployment and other stability gaps. - The campaign is designed to fund resources, mentorship and creative opportunities for foster youth nationwide.

What happened: - Music Is Unity announced that its 75-Day Hard Fundraiser has reached the halfway mark. - The campaign launched on May 4 during Foster Care Awareness Month in honor of founder Philip Bailey’s 75th birthday. - The effort aims to raise $75,000 in 75 days. - Bailey linked the milestone to Black Music Month and said music is about community, connection and creating opportunities for others.

The details: - Donations and social sharing from supporters across the country have helped push the campaign forward since launch. - Funds from the fundraiser benefit Rise Above, Kids In the Spotlight, Beyond Emancipation and Elevating Connections. - Those groups provide mentorship, enrichment opportunities, creative programs and other resources for foster youth. - Music Is Unity said the campaign has helped expand opportunities for young people navigating life during and after foster care. - The organization will launch its first-ever giveaway to celebrate the halfway point. - Every donation made through June 24 will be entered to win an exclusive prize package. - Two winners will each receive a signed Earth, Wind & Fire Greatest Hits vinyl record and a personalized, signed copy of Philip Bailey’s memoir, Shining Star: Braving the Elements of Earth, Wind & Fire. - Donations must be received by 11:59 p.m. EST on June 24. - Winners will be notified by June 26. - Supporters can learn more and donate at musicisunity.org.

Between the lines: - More than 20,000 young people age out of the U.S. foster care system each year without permanent family support. - That reality leaves many vulnerable to long-term hardship, which is why Music Is Unity is centering the fundraiser on wraparound support and community partnerships. - The giveaway is a momentum tool as the campaign moves into its second half.

What’s next: - Music Is Unity will continue fundraising through the 75-day campaign window. - The organization will notify giveaway winners by June 26. - Campaign updates are available through Music Is Unity’s social channels, including Instagram and Facebook.