As thousands of visitors arrive in Oceana County this weekend for Electric Forest, the Festival’s presence is once again evident not only on the Double JJ grounds, but also in classrooms, parks, and community spaces across the region. While the four-day event brings music and energy to Rothbury each summer, its impact extends far beyond the festival gates—helping to strengthen local communities year-round through meaningful, sustained investment through the Electric Forest Charitable Fund in the Oceana Community Foundation.
One of the clearest examples of that impact is the continued growth of the Music in Schools program, led by the Oceana Community Foundation. Supporting students across multiple districts, the program is helping ensure that access to music education remains strong and inclusive. This year’s program was made possible through a collaborative funding effort led by Electric Forest with a $10,000 contribution, joined by seven additional foundation partners: JT Sackett Fund ($10,000), David P. Markiewicz Memorial Fund ($1,300), Little Point Sable – Arts for Oceana County Fund ($3,000), Happy Farmers Art of Living Fund ($2,000), Carnes Family Fund for Music Arts Camp ($500), Edward and Evelyn Kolbe Fund ($2,800), and the Patrick “Rick” Aerts Band & Music Therapy Fund ($400). Together, these investments are equipping music programs with new instruments, curriculum materials, uniforms, and technology that many schools would otherwise struggle to afford through their budgets. From elementary classrooms in Hart and Shelby to band and choir programs in Hesperia, Montague, and Pentwater, these grants are not just filling gaps; they are expanding opportunities and inspiring creativity for hundreds of young people.
For teachers and students, the difference is immediate and deeply felt. “I’m so thankful for this support and excited to see my students grow as musicians next year!” said Nicole Herremans, K-4 music teacher at Spitler Elementary. “I can’t wait to see their faces as they use the new instruments and experience the new curriculum.” Across the county, similar enthusiasm is echoing through music rooms. “This is so exciting. I can’t stop smiling! I am so happy for the choir and band students who will benefit from the district’s new piano” shared Nancy Blount of Hesperia Community Schools.
At Shelby Public Schools, band director Erin Ray emphasized how these investments directly elevate student experiences: “We are grateful for these opportunities to improve the quality of our marching band program. Over the last three years we’ve been able to upgrade our drum line instruments, making our annual performance at the Festival even more exciting.” And at Spitler Elementary, Principal Jenna Oleneack highlighted the long-term effect: “We’re so grateful and fortunate for your support. I can’t wait to see the progress and love for music continue to grow.”
Electric Forest’s commitment to give back to the local area hosting their annual Festival goes beyond music to also include art, nature and inclusivity for people of all abilities. In the Oceana Community Foundation’s Spring 2026 Community Grant Round, Electric Forest helped support a range of projects that address critical local needs. Funding is helping Blue Lake Public Radio continue operating after the loss of long-standing federal support—preserving both cultural programming and essential emergency alert services for the region. Additional support is improving accessibility through Disability Network’s new program to identify and address barriers for residents with disabilities and seniors while building local capacity for long-term improvements. Investments in Oceana County Parks & Recreation are also helping establish an in-house maintenance program, ensuring parks remain safe, welcoming, and well cared for. Electric Forest also committed to supporting art murals at the Oceana Community Foundation’s new office in Hart—further contributing to the area’s creative identity and sense of place.
Taken together, these efforts reflect a broader story—one that often goes unseen amid the Festival crowds. Electric Forest is not only an annual event; it is an ongoing partner in strengthening Oceana County. Its charitable contributions help sustain essential services, expand access to the arts and nature, and create opportunities that benefit residents long after the music fades.
For details about making a gift, now or through an estate plan, creating a named fund, or learning more about Oceana Community Foundation’s programs & activities, call Tammy Carey at 231-869-3377 or visit the Foundation’s new website at www.oceanafoundation.org.