Press Release  ·  November 2026

Chad Smith Foundation Announces Expansion of AMP Initiative to Indianapolis

Chad Smith Foundation to bring free music lessons to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Indianapolis participants beginning January 2027, with support from Ward Poulos and legendary drummer Kenny Aronoff.

Indianapolis, November 9, 2026 — The Chad Smith Foundation (CSF) is expanding its After-School Music Program (AMP) Initiative to Indianapolis through a partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Indianapolis. Beginning January 2027, AMP will launch at the organization's Lilly Club and J.D. Foundation locations, providing young people with access to instruments, professional instruction, and educational resources at no cost to participating clubs or families.

Indiana's rich musical history and contributions to American music make Indianapolis a natural extension of the Foundation's Midwestern roots. The expansion builds on AMP's launch in Milwaukee and its expansion into Detroit, furthering CSF's mission to make music education accessible to young people across the country.

Kenny Aronoff, one of the world's most accomplished drummers and an Indiana University alumnus, was inspired to support the launch through a financial contribution.

“Music changed my life in ways I never could have imagined, bringing me together with incredible people and opening doors to opportunities I never thought possible. Having spent 4 years studying percussion at the Jacobs School of Music, where I have the Kenny Aronoff Percussion Scholarship, being a member of the John Mellencamp Band for 17 years, and living in Bloomington, Indiana, for 35 years, it brings me so much joy to give back to the place where my love of music began and help the next generation discover the same love and purpose that I found.” — Kenny Aronoff

The expansion is made possible through the generous financial support of Indianapolis native Ward Poulos, co-founder of ZipRecruiter and a member of the Chad Smith Foundation's Board of Directors. Poulos grew up playing drums and credits his experiences as a musician with developing many of the skills that contributed to his success in business. In recognition of his support, one of the two locations will be named the Ward & Samira Poulos AMP Site.

"Since my childhood years in Indianapolis, playing drums has been one of the most important and rewarding parts of my life. I recognize how fortunate I was to have access to great teachers, which led to a lifelong passion that I treasure. Samira and I are honored to give that same opportunity to kids in the community where I grew up, in addition to helping expand the foundation’s efforts across the U.S.” — Ward Poulos

About the AMP Initiative

The Chad Smith Foundation's After-School Music Program (AMP) Initiative was created to eliminate financial barriers to music education by bringing free, structured music lessons directly into community organizations serving young people. Working alongside local partners, including Boys & Girls Clubs and other youth-serving organizations, CSF provides the instructors, instruments, equipment, and educational resources necessary to establish sustainable after-school music programs.

Fender®, the world's leading guitar, bass and amplifier brand, is supporting the Indianapolis expansion through its partnership with the Chad Smith Foundation. Fender will provide guitars, basses and access to Fender Play®, its interactive digital learning platform, to students and instructors. These resources will complement in-person instruction and support continued musical development beyond the classroom.

About the Chad Smith Foundation

Co-founded by Chad Smith, drummer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Chad Smith Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to music education and inspiring the next generation of musicians. Through its core pillars of Inspiration, Access, and Support, the Foundation provides instruments, instruction, scholarships, and unique musical experiences to help young people across the country get started in music and keep them going.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Indianapolis

Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis believes every young person deserves to live a life filled with hope and opportunity. Because we care about our young people, we provide a safe, educational and positive atmosphere where they can prosper and reach their full potential. Learn more about how to join a Club at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis website here. Eligible kids ages 5 to 18 receive homework help, a daily snack/meal, health and wellness education, mentorship opportunities, and the mere chance to be a kid. Programming is available five days a week, 2:30 to 9 p.m. For additional information, please call (317) 920-4700 or visit www.BGCINDY.org. Follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/bgcindy, Instagram @bgc_indy and TikTok @bgci_1.

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