Annual budget: $1.3M
Mission: To enlighten, educate, and entertain through symphonic music
What the nominator said: “While there are many hard-working organizations in Rockford involved with helping the least of us and other groups that provide for the elite of us, the Rockford Symphony Orchestra caters to what is the best in us. The RSO is the soul of the city. Of course, they perform to entertain their audiences, but they do so much more. Every time this organization performs someone comes into their concert venue, whether it be the Coronado, Starlight, Sinnissippi Park, or even a local polling place, someone comes in hurting, lost, or feeling hopeless and is uplifted by the power of live music and its ability to literally bring harmony, healing and peace into one's life. The years of dedication and practice from this marvelous group of musicians and teachers and the leadership of its director and staff give everyone who hears them a new outlook on life. They affirm everything of value in our lives especially in times when our community struggles to come together as one.” — Dr. Bill and Leah Baskin