If you’ve ever waited in line for a show at House of Blues on Decatur Street in New Orleans, you may have noticed the brightly illuminated sign spelling out “Help Ever Hurt Never” in the windows above the venue. In keeping with this mantra, the International House of Blues Foundation is currently accepting applications for the non-profit organization’s 2012/2013 Action for the Arts Instruments, Arts Resources and Grants Program. The annual program offers musical instruments, arts resources and grants to applicants providing programming to underserved youth populations in cities across the country, including the greater New Orleans area.

Established in 1993, the IHOBF works to support schools and community-based musical instruction programs through initiatives such as Action for the Arts Instruments, Arts Resources and Grants Program. Public school and non-profit organizations serving 5th to 12th grade students are welcome to apply for grants of up to $2,500 to be used towards instructor fees and art resources, or for musical instruments and equipment (including music stands, instrument cases etc.) with a retail value not exceeding $2,500. The deadline for the program has been extended, and applications are currently being accepted through August 15, 2012. For complete guidelines, eligibility requirements and applications instructions, please visit ihobf.org/grants