What is the Larry Read Performing Arts Grant?

The Jasper Public Schools Foundation is proud to partner with family and friends of Jasper ISD Alumni Larry Read to award the annual Larry Read Performing Arts Grant.

Mission:  To provide opportunities for students to participate in the arts who may not be able to afford the experience without monetary assistance.

Purpose:  This grant was created and donations were given by those who love Larry.  He was such a wonderful man and those who love him want his memory to carry on even though he is no longer with us.  The wish of his family and friends is to instill his love of music and the performing arts in young people who may not be able to have these experiences if not for the generosity of others.

About Larry Read:  Larry was a man with a strong moral compass who was passionate about his family, friends, music and community.  He graduated from Jasper High School in 1989 where he had been a clarinetist in the school’s band.  After high school his love for his community expanded for his love of a larger community – his country.  Following a family tradition, Larry joined his father and grandfather by becoming a soldier in the Army where he served with honor.  His life revolved around his family and friends.  He wanted nothing more than to make those around him happy - whether that be in helping with home projects or giving gifts.

Larry’s favorite hobby was music – whether it be listening to or making it, music was one of the most important things in his life.  He often went to concerts to support local bands and would buy instruments that were in various states of disrepair to fix them.  Sometimes he would sell the newly renovated instruments to people who may not be able to afford such a nice piece of equipment otherwise.  Many times he would buy instruments to give to family and friends.  He loved to see the look on the recipient’s face when they got a new instrument that they had not expected and was especially excited when he knew this gift was going to help to build someone else’s dream.

If you would like to donate to the Larry Read Performing Arts Grant, please make checks out to JPS Foundation and note "Larry Read Grant" in the memo line.

Mail to:

JPS Foundation
P.O. Box 2243
Jasper, Texas 75951

For further details please contact Jamie White

jamie.white@jasperisd.net