A weakened economy can sometimes mean non-essential programs take a hit.  But a KELOLAND group is working to make sure that doesn't happen to music education.

The Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society's annual JazzFest is a hit every summer.  But the group provides more than just good beats to KELOLAND.  One of the biggest components of the Jazz and Blues Society is providing education programs for local students. And they're finding ways to expand their outreach in the face of a tough economy.

As the smooth sounds of jazz filled Barnes and Noble, people were listening...and giving. With this voucher, a portion of all purchases today go to the Jazz and Blues Society's education fund. 

"This is just a really easy way for us to try to raise a few extra dollars to help support all different kinds of music education programs throughout the year," said Katrina Lehr-McKinney, Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues Society Executive Coordinator.  "Every time we do it, we hope to grow more and more"

Lehr-McKinney says the funding goes toward scholarship programs for middle and high school students, as well as a touring education program that travels across the state.

"I think this is a good mechanism for us to get the word out about the organization," Lehr-McKinney said.  "But also to show awareness not just for JazzFest and our concert series, but this is a way for people to know we're reaching out to children."

Lehr-McKinney says she knows times are tough, but that the good will of the community continues to make the outreach possible.

"They see a benefit to what we're doing and so, we're being good stewards of their money and the funds that they're giving us and being really smart about what they're doing," Lehr-McKinney said.  "We want to show people that what we do is important to the community, the services that we're providing are valuable, and make people feel good and make our community better."