Opry Heritage Foundation of Oklahoma

The Opry Heritage Foundation of Oklahoma (OHFO) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing music education, artist development, and the music industry in Oklahoma. Established in 2005, the foundation aims to enhance the state's cultural scene while providing services to under-served communities.

Mission and Vision

The OHFO's mission is to provide quality music education and artist development, promoting the music industry and tourism in Oklahoma. Its vision is to become the premier provider of music education for underserved groups and to support promising Oklahoma performers through family-friendly entertainment initiatives.

Programs

1. Guitars for Vets (G4V): The foundation partners with Guitars for Vets to offer guitar instruction to veterans, promoting the healing power of music. This program provides free guitar lessons, a new acoustic guitar, and a guitar accessory kit in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

2. Granville Community Music School: Named after Opry founder Granville (Grant) Leftwich, Granville offers music instruction to children from low-income families at a nominal fee. It also partners with local schools and organizations to bring music education to underserved communities.

3. Oklahoma Opry: This is Oklahoma's official country music show, celebrating its 45th year of providing live entertainment. It features local talent, veterans of the Opry stage, and occasional special appearances by renowned country music artists.

4. Oklahoma Heritage Concert Series: This educational program teaches Oklahoma history through interactive music experiences, partnering with the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum to bring these events to schools statewide.

5. Artist Development and Writers From the Row Workshops: These programs focus on developing stage presence, vocal production, and songwriting skills. The workshops provide feedback from industry professionals and offer collaborative opportunities for local songwriters to work with renowned composers.

Financial Overview

As of the latest available data, the foundation reported a revenue of $467,000 and expenses of $386,000 in 2023. Total assets stood at $422,000, with liabilities of $32,500. Contributions have historically been a significant source of revenue, along with program services[2].

Governance and Leadership

The foundation is governed by a board of directors, currently chaired by Randy Earhart. Other leadership roles include Chad Huntington as Vice Chair and Clarke Farmer as Treasurer. The board membership includes notable figures like Lemuel Bardeguez, Aaron Budd, Chanda Graham, Jason Hughs, Susan McCoy, and Teri Newby[1].