The District Magazine Vol. 1 Issue 4, Winter 2016 | Page 40

G I V I N G M AT T E R S Instruments 4 Life Instruments 4 Life is a Tampa-based 501c3 non-profit that formed in 2011 by four-lifetime friends. They have worked with numerous organizations to provide music lessons & instruments to underprivileged and deserving children. “We’re trying to make the world more musical,” said co-founder John Soler. “Life is nothing without art, and we are working to make sure that all kids who may have never had the opportunity are given a chance to experience the joy of playing music.” The founders all grew up in Tampa and have played music together for years. “Dane Gilbert & John had a garage band in middle school. I used to go over and just listen,” said David Diaz, “finally they let me hold a guitar one day, and I never put it down again. They were the ones to teach me the gift of playing music, and now we are all able to pass that along to others.” Instruments 4 Life, I4L for short, has devoted the most time to working with group foster homes around the local area, providing not just music lessons but mentorship as well. “It’s not just about the notes, making a connection is important if you want to make a lasting impact on these kids,” 40 40 says Todd Nanni. “We’ve stayed longer after lessons to play sports, help with studies, or even just to chat about life. Music is just one way that we can help them grow confidence.” The group has also set up lessons with after school programs, churches, children cancer centers, & more. “Every kid, every person for that matter, needs an outlet. For us, that’s music. We love being able to share that and make it a possibility,” says Dane Gilbert. “We don’t see ourselves as the best musicians or greatest teachers, but we can do what we can to hopefully make a difference and give back.” Instruments 4 Life is grassroots funded. Help make the world more musical by connecting with them at facebook.com/instruments4life or emailing [email protected].