Friends of CYSO,

I would like to take this opportunity to request your support of this amazing organization. As a parent and board member I am always impressed at the commitment and quality of our musicians, parents and staff. The recent Winter concerts were a huge success and proof that this organization is truly special and creates a lasting impact on the lives of our young musicians.

While serving on the board of directors for the past four years, I have seen my daughter benefit greatly from her participation in CYSO. I have also seen CYSO improve itself to meet the demands of an increasingly complicated business environment. Our website, facebook page, payment online options, and concert programs with presenting sponsors Kennelly Keys and King FM, are all examples of how CYSO is changing with the times and better serving the community.

The economic downturn of the past several years has been a challenge for us all. CYSO has faced increased operating costs and static enrollment for the past several years. We have met the challenge through careful financial management, the use of volunteer help and increased solicitation of donations. At the same time, we have kept tuition increases to a minimum and also provided scholarships to students who otherwise would not have been able to participate due to economic hardship.

As we head into our Spring concert season I am asking you to consider increasing your support of our CYSO musicians. There are many ways you can personally contribute and all will be heartily appreciated by our deserving students. Please consider the following options:

Donate – Make a tax deductible cash donation online at www.cyso.us or by mail (sent to CYSO
P.O. Box 77159 Seattle, WA 98177)

Scholarships – Sponsor one of six scholarships that are available to fund for a seat at Summer Sounds music camp this August. For the 2011-12 season there are six full and six partial scholarships that need sponsorship

Fundraising – Volunteer to serve on the fundraising committee. This newly formed committee is working on applying for grants and reaching out to the local and regional arts community for support. Contact Marilyn Marsh (at 425 478-9078) for more information

Spring Concert – Help with program development, advertisement sales and ticket pre-sales for our Spring concert. Contact Lianne Kono, Operations Manager, for more information at lianne@cyso.us.

Recruitment – Help us promote registration in Summer Sounds and Fall Auditions by spreading the word and letting us know of a potential new CYSO family member. Sign up to be a CYSO liaison to your public or private school and help us deliver informational materials for our programs, contact Lianne Kono if you would like to help in this way.

Thank you for your continued support of the Cascade Youth Symphony Orchestras.

Sincerely,
Craig Gill
CYSO Governing Board Chair