The Metallica Scholars Initiative, part of Metallica's All Within My Hands foundation, is expanding its reach from 15 to 23 schools in 2021. The Foundation plans to donate $1.6 million in funding with the goal of reinvesting in communities that have supported the band over the last four decades.
"It has been amazing to see this program continue to grow and thrive. I get so grateful hearing from those who benefit from our grant. Hearing their story of doubt to direction. From those who are able to pursue additional education leading directly to meaningful employment. It gave us confidence that we are doing the right thing and inspired us to do even more. We are very proud and excited to work with additional schools encouraging even more Metallica Scholars to pursue a profession in the skilled trades," said Metallica guitarist and vocalist James Hetfield.
The Metallica Scholars Initiative was created in 2019 through a partnership between the band’s All Within My Hands foundation and the American Association of Community Colleges, a Washington, D.C. based organization representing the country’s more than 1,000 community colleges.
Starting with 10 colleges located in communities that supported Metallica on tour, schools were selected via a competitive application process, each receiving $100,000 toward programs designed to support students training to enter the American workforce.
