ABOUT THE MOTOWN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION The Motown Alumni Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of Motown Records and its artists. Founded in 1993 by music industry executive Billy Wilson, the organization provides a support network for former Motown employees and artists and works to promote the history and culture of Motown music. Motown Records was founded in Detroit in 1959 by Berry Gordy and became one of the most successful and influential record labels of the 20th century. Motown's roster of artists included legends such as Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and the Jackson 5, among many others. The label's unique blend of soul, pop, and R&B music helped to break down racial barriers and shape the sound of popular music for generations to come. The Motown Alumni Association works to ensure that the history and legacy of Motown is preserved and celebrated. The organization hosts events and programs and provides resources and support for former Motown employees and artists. The organization also advocates for artists' rights and works to address issues facing the music industry today. Over the years, the Motown Alumni Association has been recognized for its contributions to the music industry and to the preservation of Motown's legacy. The organization continues to be an important voice in the music community, and a vital resource for those who helped to create and shape the Motown sound. The Motown Alumni Association created the Motown in the Schools program, which is designed to introduce young people to the history and culture of Motown Records and its artists. The program was launched in 2005 and has since been implemented in schools across the United States. THE MOTOWN IN THE SCHOOL PROGRAM The Motown in the Schools program includes a variety of educational resources, including lesson plans, activities, and multimedia materials. The program is designed for students in grades K-12 and can be adapted to fit the needs of different classrooms and curricula. Through the Motown in the Schools program, students learn about the history of Motown records, its artists, and the impact that the label had on popular music and American culture. The program also emphasizes the values of hard work, creativity, and perseverance, which were essential to the success of Motown and its artists. The Motown in the Schools program has been praised for its innovative approach to music education, and for its ability to engage and inspire young people. The program has also been recognized for its role in preserving and celebrating the legacy of Motown records, and for its efforts to ensure that the music and culture of Motown continue to be appreciated and enjoyed for generations to come.