College Basketball's annual “March Madness” is still a few weeks away, but bracketology is in full force as Indianapolis-based nonprofits compete for funds to help make a difference in their community and beyond.

Annually, Brackets For Good hosts a single-elimination, bracket-style fundraising tournament in multiple cities that raises much-needed funds and awareness for non-profit organizations of all sizes.

Chosen to participate from a pool of more than 280 nonprofits, Drum Corps International will get in the game this year and focus its fundraising efforts to support the initiatives of the Marching Music Health and Wellness Project (formerly known as the Drum Corps Medical Project).



A collection of allied health professionals from across the country, members of the Marching Music Health and Wellness Project provide a variety of services and consultations to drum corps and other marching music ensembles, with a goal of keeping performers safe, healthy and in peak performance condition throughout the year.

“The Marching Music Health and Wellness Project provides us with tremendous opportunities to share timely information and best practices with performance ensembles around the world,” says Susan Kuehnhold, Director of Events, Community and Corps Relations for Drum Corps International. “Our participation in this year's Brackets for Good campaign will continue to provide this growing program with much-needed exposure and an opportunity to generate funding for expanding the reach of its important initiatives.”

Funds raised by Drum Corps International through the Brackets for Good challenge will be used to underwrite the ongoing efforts of the MMHWP, including education and awareness programs, on-site staff training, development and treatment opportunities at key DCI Tour stops, and a variety of other activities currently in development.

As part of the first round of the bracket challenge, DCI will face off against the Bosma Visionary Opportunities Foundation, an Indianapolis-based organization whose mission is to create opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired.

The six-round tournament takes place over five weeks kicking off today, Friday February 26. The first round will last a week, with the semifinal and championship rounds each lasting three days.  

Nonprofits participate at no cost and retain 100 percent of the donations raised during the tournament, regardless of advancement. The tournament champion in each city will also receive a grand prize donation from the title sponsor.

Donations can be made online at indianapolis.bfg.org.