Why should you consider contributing to the Leyton Howard Memorial Scholarship Fund?
- Empower Young Musicians: Your donation provides much-needed musical instruments to students who might otherwise miss out on the profound benefits of music education due to economic constraints. By equipping them with the necessary tools, you help unlock their potential and foster a lifelong passion for the arts.
- Strengthen Community Bonds: Music is a powerful tool for building community. By supporting young musicians, you are investing in a vibrant, culturally rich Los Gatos. Your contribution helps cultivate a generation of individuals who appreciate and contribute to the arts, enhancing the social fabric of our community.
- Promote Academic Excellence: Numerous studies have shown . . . . . . Read More
How does this work
For KIDS
Ask your teacher about our program! It’s confidential, and here to help you get that instrument or equipment you need to excel.
For Teachers
Is there a child in your 8th grade class who could truly benefit from our help? Find out how the process works.
For Donors
Would you like to make the difference in a child’s life? Studies show that involvement in school music programs = better grades.
Los Gatos is an affluent town, but….
Who We Are
In an affluent community like Los Gatos, California, it might seem surprising that there are children who cannot afford musical instruments and equipment. However, several factors contribute to this disparity and underline the necessity of support systems like the Leyton Howard Memorial Scholarship Fund:
- Economic Diversity: Despite the overall affluence of Los Gatos, the community still includes families from a wide range of economic backgrounds. Not all residents share the same level of wealth, and some families may struggle with the high cost of living in such an affluent area. These economic variations mean that while some can easily afford extracurricular activities, others cannot.
- High Cost of Living: Los Gatos, as part of the Silicon Valley area, has one of the highest costs of living in the United States. Housing, daily expenses, and taxes consume a significant portion of household incomes, even those that might be considered substantial elsewhere. This leaves less disposable income for things like music education and instruments.
- Visibility of Affluence: In a community where wealth is highly visible, there can be significant pressure on families to “keep up” in various ways, including providing extracurricular opportunities for their children. This can be particularly challenging for middle and lower-income families who might prioritize essential needs over enrichment activities.
- Cost of Musical Participation: Engaging in music, especially at a competitive or high level, involves not just purchasing an instrument but also maintenance costs, private lessons, and possibly travel for performances. These costs can accumulate, making it difficult for financially constrained families to support their child’s musical interests.
- Limited School Budgets: Even in wealthier areas, school music programs can face budget constraints and may not have the resources to provide instruments for all students. This can leave interested students without the means to participate.
- Awareness and Access: Some families might not be aware of the opportunities available or how to access resources for musical education, particularly if they are new to the community or if there are language and cultural barriers.
The Leyton Howard Memorial Scholarship Fund addresses these challenges by providing financial assistance specifically for purchasing musical instruments and equipment. This support helps ensure that all children in the community, regardless of their economic background, have the opportunity to explore and develop their musical talents. This not only fosters inclusivity but also enriches the cultural fabric of Los Gatos by enabling diverse voices and talents to flourish.
Our Story
Leyton Howard, a respected and beloved retired police officer from Los Gatos, California, left a lasting legacy in law enforcement and community service. Born on August 3rd, 1958, in Los Gatos, Leyton dedicated his life to serving the town he always called home.
Growing up in Los Gatos, Leyton was deeply influenced by his surroundings and the tight-knit community. He graduated from Los Gatos High School in 1976, attended San Jose State before starting his own landscaping business. As a son and nephew of sheriff officers, the police bug bit him and he went to work for the Santa Clara sheriff’s department. He was hired by Los Gatos in 1988. His passion for public service was evident early on, leading him to join the Los Gatos Police Department shortly after graduation.