LAWRENCEBURG, Ind., NOVEMBER 17, 2025 – A $1,000 Proactive Grant from the Dearborn Community Foundation to the Southeast Indiana Youth Orchestra (SEIYO) for general purposes should be music to the ears of anyone who appreciates development of young musicians.

SEIYO provides youth string musicians with the opportunity to develop their skills through an orchestral setting, said Board member Jan Tyler, who made the recommendation.

The award is part of the Foundation’s annual program, through which each of the organization’s 15 volunteer Board members recommends a $1,000 grant. The grants to charitable organizations that serve Dearborn County residents are funded through Unrestricted Endowment Funds, established by donors to provide flexibility that addresses changing needs in the community over the years.

“Although my children were not involved in this organization, I witnessed firsthand

how learning musicianship at a young age helped develop their skills. I have seen SEIYO perform at the Aurora Lions Club Building at Christmastime during Miracle On Main Street,” said Tyler.

“Students have an opportunity to join with others and play as a group. We also hope to increase interest in different genres of music and give students opportunities to develop their musicianship.”

​The organization launched in August 2015 with eight students and soaring ambition. SEIYO provided string-playing students with a place to develop their skills. Since then, members have played at several local events and activities. 

​SEIYO offers affordable music education, along with inexpensive instrument rentals. Among the organization’s primary goals is to provide string education to students who do not otherwise have easy access. SEIYO is the first organization of its kind in the area in this regard.

Visit seiyouthorchestra.org for more about the group.

Anyone can contribute to an unrestricted endowment at DCF and help make impact grants like the 15 DCF Board members are recommending in 2025.

For a list of unrestricted endowments and to learn more about the Foundation, call 812-539-4115, or visit the Foundation website at dearborncf.org. If you are interested in contributing to DCF, visit our website’s “Give Now” page to donate online and to learn about other giving options.