The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights community. Located in one of Lee County’s most economically challenged neighborhoods, The Heights Center offers comprehensive support through early learning, afterschool programs, summer camps, adult education, arts enrichment, and more. By addressing the educational, economic, and social needs of the entire family, The Heights Foundation empowers children and adults to break the cycle of poverty.

“Music is a universal language, and through MOSAIC, we are giving our students a voice, a purpose, and a community,” said Melissa Barlow, Director of Arts and Community Programs. “These young musicians are not only learning to play instruments—they’re learning to lead, to collaborate, and to dream big.”

Led by professional conductors Roland Forti and Katrina Rozmus, MOSAIC fosters leadership, discipline, and ambition while strengthening family and community bonds through the shared experience of music.

MOSAIC offers three core ensemble programs designed to meet students at every stage of their musical journey:

MOSAIC Beginners (Grades 1–5)
Serving nearly 50 elementary and middle school students from the Harlem Heights neighborhood, this program offers daily, tuition-free music instruction and multiple performance opportunities that enrich lives and inspire excellence.

Students choose a string, woodwind, or percussion instrument and receive group instruction Monday through Friday from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. The program focuses on building musical foundations, confidence, and a love of learning in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Tuition: Free
Contact: Melissa Barlow | melissa@heightsfoundation.org | (239) 482-7706 x4006

Middle School String and Wind Ensembles
Open to students throughout Southwest Florida, these intermediate-level ensembles provide weekly rehearsals and opportunities for ensemble collaboration and continued musical growth.

String Ensemble: Mondays, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Wind Ensemble: Wednesdays, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.

Tuition: Free
Contacts:
Strings: Isaac Fernandez-Hernandez | isaac@heightsfoundation.org
Winds: Melissa Barlow | melissa@heightsfoundation.org

MOSAIC Youth Philharmonic
This audition-based full orchestra brings together advanced young musicians from across Southwest Florida for weekly rehearsals, small ensemble coaching, and performances. The ensemble presents three concerts annually at The Heights Center, with additional appearances throughout Lee County.

Rehearsals: Mondays, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Tuition: $300 annually (scholarships and payment plans available)
Contact: Isaac Fernandez-Hernandez | isaac@heightsfoundation.org
Note: Auditions will take place Monday, September 8, at The Heights Center.

To learn more about MOSAIC or support the program, visit www.heightsfoundation.org/mosaic or call (239) 482-7706.

About The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center
The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. Our mission is to support education and wellness, promote family and community development, and provide the benefits of enrichment and the arts. The Heights Center, supported by The Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. Heights Early Learning serves more than 85 babies through 4 years old. The Heights Center serves 153 children in AfterSchool and 160 children in SummerCamp. The Harlem Heights Community Charter School serves 200 children from kindergarten through fifth grade.
Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 780 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 78% Hispanic, 16% African-American, and 6% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. As a result, families cannot easily access family support services in downtown Fort Myers and benefit greatly from programs within the neighborhood.

“With this grant, we’ll be able to ensure more students can access high-quality music education,” said Melissa Barlow, Director of Arts and Community Programs at The Heights Center.

The League Club awarded a total of $762,412 to 34 nonprofit organizations this year—an $80,000 increase from 2024. Over its 38-year history, the organization has distributed more than $8 million in grants to 222 nonprofits across Collier and Lee Counties, supporting children, families, veterans, and seniors in areas such as education, housing, food insecurity, mental and physical health, and the arts.

“The 2024-2025 year has been extraordinary,” said Donna Lindberg, President of The League Club. “Thanks to our generous members and donors, we continue to fulfill our mission of strengthening our communities through carefully vetted grants that meet critical local needs.”

Funds for The League Club’s grants are raised through its Community Trust Fund, with major support from its annual NAPLES TABLES® fundraiser and contributions from members and community donors.

For more information about The Heights Foundation and the MOSAIC program, visit www.heightsfoundation.org/MOSAIC or contact Melissa Barlow at melissa@heightsfoundation.org or (239) 482-7706 extension 4006.

Are you passionate about using music as a tool for social change and making a positive impact in the lives of children? We are seeking talented teaching artists to join MOSAIC, a full orchestra, El Sistema-inspired after-school music program offered to children in 1st-8th grade at The Heights Center in Fort Myers, FL.

At MOSAIC, we believe that music has the power to transform lives and communities. Inspired by the renowned El Sistema program, we aim to provide access to high-quality music education and empower children from diverse backgrounds through the joy of music. Our mission extends beyond teaching notes and rhythms; we use music to foster social change, promote inclusivity, and nurture the potential within each child.

Responsibilities:

• Design and deliver engaging music lessons, incorporating elements of El Sistema’s ensemble-based approach
• Cultivate a supportive and inclusive learning environment where children feel safe to express themselves and collaborate with their peers
• Incorporate social and emotional learning components into music lessons to promote empathy, teamwork, and self-confidence
• Collaborate with a dedicated team of educators, community partners, and parents to build a strong musical community
• Organize and participate in performances and community outreach events to showcase students’ talents and advocate for the transformative power of music

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, Performance, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Demonstrated experience working with children in group settings, particularly in underserved communities
• Strong knowledge of music theory, ensemble techniques, and various musical genres
• Understanding of El Sistema’s principles and a commitment to using music as a catalyst for social change
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a passion for building relationships with students, families, and community stakeholders
• Ability to create a positive and nurturing environment where all children can thrive and explore their musical potential

Join MOSAIC at The Heights Center and be part of a movement that uses music to transform lives and build stronger communities. We offer competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment that values your dedication to social change through music.

To apply, please email your resume, a cover letter outlining your experience working with underserved communities and your commitment to social change, and any relevant teaching or performance samples to Melissa Barlow, Director of Arts and Community Programs at melissa@heightsfoundation.org.