L.I.N.K.s Program
L.I.N.K.s stands for Lonely Instruments for Needy Kids. The Wichita, Kansas program is run by the Senseney Music Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation. In addition to monetary donations, the Foundation also accepts tax-deductible donations of used musical instruments.
The purpose of the L.I.N.K.s program is to donate instruments to children who otherwise cannot afford them. Requests come from area schools; the music teacher, the classroom teacher, or the school administration can request a LINKs instrument on behalf of a child. In addition to the school-district request, there are additional specific criteria of need and commitment that the LINK program utilizes to determine if the student qualifies. Once the instrument is gifted, it belongs to the child.
The program began in 1998 and to date we have received over 1000 instruments and donated over 750 instruments to children across south central Kansas.
Our Long-Term Vision and Short-Term Needs
LINKs-Wichita is now on the move. Thanks to the efforts of Bob Howse’s family and friends, the program can start to expand its horizons – but the Foundation needs your help! The goal is to satisfy all the needs of underprivileged children in the region who aspire to play a musical instrument. To do this, LINKs needs additional funding. The need is great, and now we see the path to better fulfill our vision. There are three ways to help:
- Donate funds to offset the cost of instrument repairs. Every precious dollar is used as efficiently as possible to get these instruments professionally repaired and into the hands of underprivileged children. Every $50 – $100 helps prepare an instrument for distribution.
- Donate funds to help LINKs actively source additional inexpensive used instruments. LINKs has been the hit-and-miss recipient of generous instrument donors, but now would like to source additional used instruments from non-donor sources.
- Donate a used musical instrument. Please bring it to Senseney Music (see page footer below for address). It will be appraised, you will be given a donation receipt, and your instrument will be added to the program.
To donate by mail, send check payable to Senseney Music Foundation at:
Lori Supinie
Senseney Music Foundation
2300 E. Lincoln
Wichita, KS 67211