Papitto Opportunity Connection (POC) funding is igniting action at the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School. One year after a major POC investment, the country’s largest combined professional orchestra and community music school shows us how it’s significantly expanding its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Victoria’s Dream Project (VDP) is one of several endeavors supported by the POC at the RI Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School. VDP is a performance-based string instruction program for grades 3–5 students at the Agnes Little Elementary School in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

Victoria’s Dream Project provides students with an immersive experience that supports creative, academic, and personal growth, and encourages future accomplishments. Participating students receive a free string instrument, after-school academic support, music instruction three days a week, and a pathway to attend RI Philharmonic Music School through high school.

Watch the video above to see this year’s cohort learning amazing things together.