Downey nonprofit among dozens to receive Koch Foundation grants

Drumming For Your Life Institute website

DOWNEY – A local nonprofit that uses music as a tool for healing is among 50 organizations across Los Angeles County awarded new funding from the Elizabeth R. Koch Foundation.

Drumming For Your Life Institute, based in Downey, received support as part of the foundation’s inaugural $2.4 million grant initiative, which will assist groups working in areas such as youth mentorship, health care, food security, housing, arts, and community programs.

Founded on the belief that rhythm can promote resilience and well-being, Drumming For Your Life Institute offers programs that use drumming as a therapeutic tool for young people and communities facing trauma. The organization partners with schools, detention centers, and community groups to provide safe, creative outlets for expression.

The grant is part of one of the first large-scale funding rounds from the Elizabeth R. Koch Foundation, which supports organizations fostering connection, care, and belonging throughout Los Angeles County.

“Our city is so vast that it can sometimes feel disconnected,” said Elizabeth R. Koch, founder and CEO of the foundation. “But LA is overflowing with generosity, creativity, and concern for the well-being of others. These grantees are the heartbeat of that spirit in how they forge a sense of belonging and weave community into every far corner of this place we call home.”

Other grantees include Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Homeboy Industries, Meals on Wheels of Long Beach, Project Angel Food, and Students Run LA.

The foundation’s focus areas include after-school programs, crisis response, grief support, rites of passage, and mental health services. Koch emphasized that the initiative is just the beginning of the foundation’s long-term commitment.

“There are so many inspiring organizations, so much urgent need,” Koch said. “This is just the beginning of our commitment to L.A., and we can’t wait to walk alongside the extraordinary people who so passionately serve these precious communities.”

Applications for the grants were open this spring to 501(c)(3) nonprofits with annual budgets of at least $250,000.