United Community Bank & Novant Health Named Presenting Sponsors for the Bands of Wando Foundation Annual Charity Celebration

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The Bands of Wando Foundation is proud to announce United Community Bank and Novant Health, owners of East Cooper Medical Center, as the presenting sponsors for the Annual Charity Celebration on March 29, 2025. Their generous support will help further the foundation’s mission to break down financial barriers and ensure that every student, regardless of economic background, has the opportunity to explore and develop their musical and performance talents.

The Bands of Wando Foundation is dedicated to supporting the Band and Marching Arts programs at Wando High School, Cario Middle School, and Laing Middle School, institutions that have long been recognized for their excellence. However, the foundation acknowledges that opportunity gaps exist, and through scholarship funding, they strive to create a more equitable learning environment for all students.

Bridging the Instrumentation Gap

In addition to the foundation’s scholarships and camp programs, the foundation’s latest project aims to bridge the gap between the urgent need for new musical instruments and the limitations of the school district’s budget. Just as books are essential to classroom learning, instruments are vital to a band student’s education. Many of the program’s current instruments are at least 13 years old and beyond repair, making it increasingly difficult for students to perform at their highest level.

To address this, the foundation has launched a capital campaign with a fundraising goal of $300,000 to purchase much-needed percussion and brass instruments. With the support of the community and generous sponsors like United Community Bank and Novant Health, the foundation hopes to equip students with the resources they need to succeed.

Michelle Romano, Executive Director of Bands of Wando Foundation, emphasized the gratitude for and the importance of this partnership, saying, Music and the Marching Arts shapes minds, builds confidence, and creates lifelong opportunities. With the support of United Community Bank and Novant Health, we can continue providing students with the tools they need to succeed, ensuring that talent—not financial limitations—determines their ability to participate and thrive in our Band and Marching Arts programs.

Join Us in Supporting Music Education

The Annual Charity Celebration is an opportunity for the community to come together in support of music and marching arts education and the talented students of Wando, Cario, and Laing. The event will feature food, music, exclusive auctions, a great view, and opportunities to contribute to this meaningful cause.