The East Wake Band Parents Organization supports and promotes all aspects of the East Wake High Band programs. We strive to provide a solid foundation for our students and Band Director so that they can focus on their musical experience and education.
Every year we raise funds to support our Marching Band, Concert Band, Pep Band, and Color Guard/Winterguard programs. We coordinate transportation to performances, maintain uniforms, provide meals before or during performances, and coordinate food and necessities for a 3 week summer Band camp. In past years we have raised funds to purchase new instruments, new uniforms, and fund yearly trips to places like Carnegie Hall and Disney Theme parks. Covid pandemic hit us especially hard. Because our program is funded solely through fundraising, donations, and family contributions, the funding and parent involvement virtually stopped. Many of our local sponsors had to stop donations and some even closed down permanently. Many parents lost their jobs or had hours cut. Virtual learning didn't help much because, well, it's not the "band experience" that's been celebrated for decades. We are slowly recovering, but it's been an uphill battle. Many of our parents work longer hours or two or more jobs just to make ends meet. They simply don't have the time to volunteer. Our biggest money maker is operating 2 concession stands at the Walnut Creek Amphitheater during the summer concert season. It brings in well over $20k for us each season. Alcohol sales and food safety training are required but that is available online and is valid for 2 years.
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