What is the relationship between Integral Steps and Play It Forward?

Integral Steps is our home - a non-profit organization that provides a range of unique and interesting educational programs, events and camps- and Play It Forward is an initiative of that organization. We are all part of the same big family and our missions and staff are one and the same. 

How do you select scholarship recipients?

When we have openings, our online application will be active for a period of time. While we wish that we could fund every single student who applies, we our resources are limited to a certain number each semester. We will select scholarship recipients from our applicant pool based on answers to the essay questions, recommendation letters, and an in-person interview.

Do I have to audition for PIF?

No. Scholarships are awarded based on essay questions, recommendation letters, and in-person interviews. If you are an experienced player already, however, we would love to hear you play as part of your interview.

How can I start a chapter in my city?

Our program currently runs in Colorado and Atlanta and we are constantly looking to expand. If you have an interest in opening a branch in your area, please contact us via this page! We would love to hear from you. 

I can afford to pay for lessons, but I want my child to learn the values instilled by PIF. What should I do?

Fantastic! What would ordinarily be your monthly tuition payment can become your tax deductible donation to PIF. Your child will earn his or her own lessons through volunteer work, and your donation will ensure that another deserving student will receive lessons.

Are faith-based programs eligible to be partner volunteer organizations?

Yes, faith-based nonprofits are eligible to partner with us provided they meet the following criteria. The organization must: 1) be a 501(c)3 nonprofit; 2) adhere to the PIF non-discrimination clause; 3) serve the wider community outside the congregation 4) provide service work that is not evangelical in nature (objective must not be conversion or recruitment - good examples include soup kitchens, clothing ministries, refugee settlement work, etc.); 5) require no religious contingencies for receipt of services; 5) not hold worship services within 50 feet or 1 hour of the program. 

Can the PIF scholarship be used for anything besides lessons?

Currently, the PIF scholarship is for lessons only. Eventually, we plan to fund related activities for our students, such as summer festivals, college application fees, and audition expenses.

Are lessons offered all year?

PIF provides lessons for two semesters following the academic year: September - December, and January - May. We do not currently operate a summer semester.