about us
Siegel Trust Enriching Art & Music, fondly known as the STEAM FUND at CFOS, is committed to supporting musical, artistic and educational opportunities in communities and schools in the Sullivan Catskills and beyond.
We safely and securely accept donations through (CFOS) Community Foundation of Sullivan County, a tax exempt, non-profit, publicly supported, philanthropic institution.
our mission
At STEAM FUND, our core mission revolves around supporting musicians, artists, and venues as they share their talents with the world through our initiative known as Mission One Gig At A Time MOGAAT. In addition to this, we are dedicated to providing Arts In Education programs that delve into important topics like social emotional learning, health, mindfulness, nutrition, peace, love, and equality for individuals of all ages – from children to teens and even adults. Furthermore, we are proud to offer scholarships for eligible graduating seniors, empowering them to pursue their dreams and aspirations in the arts. Join us in our mission to empower creativity and education – together, we can make a difference, one gig at a time!
Donate to STEAM today!
Summer is here and STEAM Fund continues its inspiring work—over 100 programs since September, 2024, bringing music, art, and empowerment to thousands of children, teens, and adults. From songwriting and workshops to professional development, the impact is clear. Please help us continue this important work and consider making STEAM Fund a pivotal choice in your charitable giving. Your support is crucial in ensuring that we continue to provide enriching opportunities for our youth and local artists who bring vibrancy and inspiration to our lives. Let’s come together to celebrate creativity and empowerment in our community.
schedule your 2025-2026 program today!
real food rules in elementary & middle schools
Lettuce introduce you to the Real Food Songwriting Program, led by the dynamic duo Beth and Scott Bierko! This melodic program is hitting all the right notes in elementary and middle schools. If you want to see the harmony in action, check out the videos below featuring the talented Sullivan BOCES students, teachers, and administrators. If you’re hungry for more and interested in bringing this tuneful program to your school or organization, don’t be shy – pea-se reach out to us at info@steamfund.org. Let’s join forces and inspire the next generation to groove to the beat of informed and healthy food choices!
mogaat - mission: one gig at a time
STEAM FUND is dedicated to uplifting musicians, artists, and venues through our MOGAAT (Mission One Gig At A Time) initiative. By sponsoring renowned music festivals like BOLD GOLD and HPAC Sullivan County, among others, STEAM is actively contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the community.
partnering with suny sullivan
As part of our MOGAAT initiative, STEAM is once again proud to sponsor The Met: Live in HD supporting the SUNY Sullivan Foundation. What a fantastic opportunity for our residents, visitors and students to see live performances streamed directly from The Metropolitan Opera in NYC to SUNY SULLIVAN’s Seelig Theater.
steam sponsors radio bold music festival
Music all day at The Bagel Festival
Sunday, August 10th 9am-4pm
steam sponsors shandelee music festival
Evening of Chamber Music featuring
Silberger – Kalayjian – Fisher Trio
Thursday, August 14 8pm
SMF Concert Pavilion
programs, news & events
full steam ahead - the podcast coming soon
Full STEAM Ahead is a new podcast series dedicated to uplifting and celebrating musicians, artists, and the venues that bring their work to life. Hosted by former radio personality and long-time friend Michelle Semerano joined by STEAM Fund co-founders Gary and Judy Siegel, the series aims to highlight powerful personal stories, promote upcoming performances, and shine a light on the creative heartbeat of our community.
steam launches youth and visiting artist outreach program
partnering with shandelee music festival
Full STEAM Ahead – SMF Youth & Visiting Artist Outreach Program
What an incredible day at Fallsburg Jr/Sr High School! We’re so excited to share that STEAM Fund’s Youth and Visiting Artist Outreach Program has officially launched — and what an amazing kickoff it was. In partnership with the Shandelee Music Festival, students enjoyed a live performance by flutist Suzanne Gilchrest and pianist Karen Lerner, who performed Poulenc’s Sonata for Flute and Piano. The highlight of the day came when the FHS Chamber Group took part in a masterclass with the artists — an inspiring, hands-on learning experience. Special thanks to Daniel Stroup, Principal Shana Bruestle, and Band Director Danna Clear for making the day such a success.
partnering with weekend of chamber music
Full STEAM Ahead – WCM Youth & Visiting Artist Outreach Program
On November 7, 2025, we continued our Youth and Visiting Artist Outreach Program in partnership with The Weekend of Chamber Music (WCM). World-class musician, composer, professor, and WCM Artistic Co-Director [Name, if desired] presented an inspiring performance featuring works by Bach and Feldman, along with captivating improvisations in the style of both composers. Following the performance, students participated in an engaging “Improvisation for Everyone” workshop, creating their own improvisational compositions by exploring musical techniques and creative expression. Our heartfelt thanks to Principal Shana Bruestle and Choral Director Colleen Barbara for their enthusiastic support and for helping make the day such a great success and to the Sullivan County BOCES Arts in Education CoSer for helping make these programs possible. Our mission is to support musicians, artists and venues by connecting students with exceptional artists and bringing live music and creativity to public schools across Sullivan, the Catskills, the Hudson Valley, and beyond.
Want to bring this experience to your school? Reach out at info@steamfund.org.
steam awarded grant from 98.3 wsul heart-a-thon
A $7,500 grant was proudly presented to the STEAM Fund as a beneficiary of the 47th Annual 98.3 WSUL Heart-A-Thon, held at Resorts World Catskills on February 21, 2025. The Heart-A-Thon supports organizations that promote the prevention, education, and treatment of heart disease in Sullivan County.
The check presentation took place at Robert J. Kaiser Middle School in the Monticello Central School District during a recording session of the Real Food Songwriting Program, recently presented by STEAM. The grant will help fund the Full STEAM Ahead Healthy Habits Programs, which provide students and staff in Sullivan County Schools with tools to make good, heart-healthy lifestyle choices—supporting not just academic growth but also long-term wellness.
Pictured (front row, left to right): Gary and Judy Siegel (STEAM Fund co-founders), Dawn Ciorciari (General Manager, Bold Gold Media Group), and Les Kristt (98.3 WSUL Heart-A-Thon Committee Chairperson), along with the enthusiastic RJK Middle School 6th Grade Chorus.
full steam ahead with boys & girls club summer camps
The Town of Wallkill Boys & Girls Club summer camps in Circleville offered a unique Full STEAM Ahead experience, where on July 10th, STEAM’s singer-songwriters and teaching artists extraordinaire Beth & Scott’s performed combining singing, dancing, sign language, and audience involvement. The campers and staff were thrilled to be part of such an interactive and enjoyable event!
a great event 'from the heart'
STEAM is honored to be a partner and beneficiary of the 47th Annual 98.3 WSUL Heart-A-Thon, alongside A Single Bite, Sullivan 180, Garnet Health Catskills, NAMI, and SUNY Sullivan. We were also proud to sponsor “From The Heart”, a special fundraising event held on April 6th at Bridge and Tunnel Brewery. The afternoon was filled with live music and community spirit, presented in loving memory of Arthur Gass, Jr. All proceeds from the event supported both the WSUL Heart-A-Thon and the Thunder 102/104.5 Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon.
Pictured is the outstanding lineup of musicians:
Front row (L–R): Cris Spinner, Beth Bierko, Joanna M. Gass, Gary Siegel, Brad Rutledge, Scott Bierko
Back row (L–R): Kenny Windheim, Steve Schwartz, Billy Paschall, Eric Nies
song commissioned by steam
In celebration of the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan’s 25th Anniversary, the STEAM Fund proudly commissioned Singer Songwriters Beth and Scott Bierko to create a song that embodies the foundation’s mission of “transforming acorns to mighty oak trees”. This commissioned piece not only reflects the joyful spirit and aspirations of CFOS but also promotes positivity, hope, health, and healing through the power of music.
"Do The Right Thing" at East Street ES - Port Jervis
Thanks to the East Main Elementary PTA and STEAM Fund, students had a blast at the Full STEAM Ahead Healthy Habits Assemblies. Teaching artists Beth and Scott Bierko led the way, incorporating music and movement into the *Do The Right Thing* and *The Golden Rule Show*, helping kids learn important lessons on good manners, following directions, emotional wellness, and kindness—all while having fun! 🎶.We’re proud to support our young learners in building healthy habits to last a lifetime.❤️
alive again for veterans & their families
What an impactful, inspirational and fun event – ALIVE AGAIN for Veterans. STEAM was thrilled to team with Action Toward Independence Vet2Vet program and HPAC (Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre).
Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Theresa Sareo, and Beth & Scott, and Emcee Paul Ciliberto as well as The Make A Difference Fund at The Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan and the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Vet2Vet Support program funded through NYS Office of Mental Health, whose generous grants helped to provide this program for Veterans.
full steam ahead with the boys & girls club summer camps
The Town of Wallkill Boys & Girls Club summer camps in Circleville offered a unique Full STEAM Ahead experience, where on July 10th, STEAM’s singer-songwriters and teaching artists extraordinaire Beth & Scott’s performed combining singing, dancing, sign language, and audience involvement. The campers and staff were thrilled to be part of such an interactive and enjoyable event!
new hope community song
Our STEAM Fund team had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with the NHC (New Hope Community,) team in crafting a brand new song! This exciting endeavor involved a dynamic brainstorming session where the NHC team shared their heartfelt thoughts on what NHC means to them. The result? Inspiring lyrics that our talented STEAM singer-songwriters are now turning into a beautiful melody, creating a one-of-a-kind song. The journey doesn’t end there! Soon, both teams will reunite for a recording session to bring this song to life. Additionally, a captivating video will be produced, showcasing the creative process and the heartfelt essence of the song. We can’t wait to share this masterpiece with all of you here and on social media! Stay tuned for the upcoming post featuring the new song created through this wonderful collaboration with NHC. Let’s celebrate the power of creativity and teamwork in making a meaningful impact through music!
empowerment song evergreen meadow services
In the spring of 2024, our STEAM Team met with the leadership of EverGreen Meadow Services (EGMS). This particular program, tailored for the girls enrolled in EGMS’s Girls’ Empowerment Program, at Liberty Middle School, aims to fulfill EGMS’s mission of providing a safe environment for growth and healing. Through the collaborative efforts of dedicated professionals like STEAM’s singer-songwriters Beth and Scott Bierko, EGMA’s Executive Director Adrienne Jensen, and social worker Carmen Martinez, the initiative addresses anti-bullying and self-esteem, a crucial growth area for the girls. The creation of The Empowerment Song is a testament to STEAM’s commitment to collaborate with organizations using music and movement to amplify their messages of improving mental health, social emotional wellness and self-care and in doing so, support them in their journey to overcome their challenges with resilience and strength. STEAM Fund at CFOS and is truly grateful to the Rowley Family Foundation/Fund for Women and Children whose generous donation towards STEAM’s Full STEAM Ahead Healthy Habits Initiative has helped to support The “Empowerment Song” program.
a song is born here in sullivan county
We’re excited to premiere “Help Is Here” and “Take One Step” two powerful new songs created as part of the Full STEAM Ahead Healthy Habits Initiative using music, movement, and nutrition to provide tools for participants — helping them make good, healthy choices.
Written and performed by STEAM Fund teaching artists and singer-songwriters Beth and Scott Bierko, both songs were inspired by two incredible and inspiring songwriting brainstorming sessions. These sessions—facilitated in partnership with S.A.L.T. (Sullivan Allies Leading Together), ATI, and United Sullivan—brought together a dynamic group of community members who shared their voices, stories, and creative energy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who participated.
Special thanks to Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County and the Ethelbert B. Crawford Library in Monticello for generously providing space for these sessions.
These songs were made possible through a generous arts-focused songwriting grant from S.A.L.T. and ATI, and we’re proud to feature it as the opening theme of the newly launched S.A.L.T. Podcast.
Help Is Here is being considered as the opening theme of the newly launched S.A.L.T. Podcast and Take One Step is currently in the hands of United Sullivan and Bold Gold Media Group, with hopes it will be used in the You Reinvented – Help Is Here marketing campaign.
Take a listen—Help Is Here and Take One Step are more than just songs; they’re a message of hope and a reflection of the strength found in community.
john lennon® real love project
In Spring, 2021, STEAM FUND at CFOS partnered with Theatre Within to launch the world premier of the JOHN LENNON® REAL LOVE PROJECT for the students at Livingston Manor Central School, a visionary music and songwriting program that uses John Lennon’s songs and timeless message of peace, love, and equality to inspire creative expression, kindness and positive social action.
STEAM Fund has continued that partnership by bringing this program to all eight school districts in the Sullivan Catskills, most recently expanding into Orange and Delaware Counties presenting the program in Circleville (Pine Bush CSD), East Main (Port Jervis CSD) and Hancock Elementary Schools. READ MORE
mindfulness in motion residency program
Mindfulness In Motion Residency Program is facilitated by our talented teaching artists Beth Scott and Friends. Recently, this innovative program was proudly hosted Liberty Middle School, Livingston Manor Central School, Emma C Chase (Monticello CSD) and Scotchtown Avenue Elementary School (Goshen CSD)
During this engaging four-day program, students have the opportunity to participate in mindfulness activities integrated into their gym classes. Led by experienced professionals, the program equips students with essential social-emotional tools to navigate everyday challenges, thus fostering academic and social growth. From enhancing problem-solving skills to promoting self-discipline, impulse control, and emotion management, the Mindfulness In Motion Residency Program lays a solid foundation for positive, long-term impacts on students, the school environment, and the wider community.
real food songwriting program
On June 14th, 2023 STEAM launched the REAL FOOD SONGWRITING Program at Livingston Manor Central School. Since the launch STEAM has brought this program to all Sullivan County Schools including SC BOCES. STEAM’s goal is to present the program in all Sullivan County Schools annually to help make a generational improvement in healthy in our schools and community. Help us to bring this incredible program to more schools. READ MORE.
View the Real Love Rules Video performed by the talented LMCS 5th & 6th Graders
View the Mid-Hudson News Segment – Real food Song Program at Liberty
educational opportunities for children: workshops & assemblies
At STEAM, we are dedicated to enriching lives through our diverse Arts In Education programs. Our programs cater to Pre-K, Elementary, Middle & High School children, as well as adults, focusing on essential topics such as Social Emotional Learning, Mindfulness, Health, Anti-Bullying, Coping Strategies, Nutrition, Diversability, and core values like Love, Peace, Equality, Brotherhood, and Sisterhood. STEAM FUND collaborates closely with public school administrators, principals, teachers, and various organizations to bring these impactful programs to schools and organizations. Our experienced teaching artists ensure the delivery of high-quality programs that resonate with individuals through arts and music.
If you are an administrator, educator, or part of the PTA, CONTACT US today to discover how we can introduce these exceptional programs to your school and community. Let’s work together to inspire, educate, and uplift through the power of arts in education.
Book Your School’s AIE/Healthy Habits Program Today!!
(Click on each program for a description)
ASSEMBLY PROGRAMS
NEW!!! I Can: The Grit & Growth Mindset Show
Happy Holidays Around The World
NEW!!! – SHANDELEE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Artist Workshops & Performances
Malena Dayen and David Rosenmeyer – Mezzo Soprano/Piano
Suzanne Gilchrest and Karen Lerner – Flute/Piano
NEW!!! – WEEKEND OF CHAMBER MUSIC
SONGWRITING PROGRAMS
Theatre Within’s John Lennon Real Love Project
WORKSHOPS/RESIDENCY PROGRAMS
NEW!!! – WCM’s Making An Opera Residency Program
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Self Care for You & Your Students
Inquire about funding sources for in-need school districts.
All STEAM programs are eligible for funding through the BOCES AIE CoSer.
CLICK on your county for more information
Sullivan • Orange • Ulster • Rockland
Delaware • Otsego • Chenango • Madison
Dutchess • Nassau • Westchester
The Real Food
Songwriting Program
STEAM Fund is thrilled to partner with A Single Bite to present The Real Food Song Program to school children. This innovative program aims to educate students about the origins and importance of food, fostering a positive impact on their choices and habits. Through thought-provoking questions and creative songwriting activities, students will have the opportunity to explore the meaning of food, its sources, and its impact on our well-being. If you are interested in bringing this engaging program to your school or organization, please reach out to us at info@steamfund.org. Let’s inspire the next generation to make informed and healthy food choices!
READ MORE!
THE JOHN LENNON
REAL LOVE PROJECT
John Lennon Real Love Project (JLRLP) – Grades 3-8
STEAM Fund, in partnership with Theatre Within, is proud to bring the JLRLP to Public School Children. The JLRLP is a visionary songwriting program for public school children where the students first learn about John Lennon’s life, music and highest values of peace, love and equality. Then, under the guidance of our teaching artists, they write their own lyrics to John’s song Real Love and then record their own version of the song accompanied by John’s original piano and vocal tracks. A video for each school is then posted on the John Lennon Tribute YouTube Channel for all to see. The project is endorsed by Yoko Ono and the Lennon Estate. READ MORE
Watch the incredible Tri-Valley Elementary School John Lennon Real Love Project Video
ALIVE AGAIN
In the Spring of 2023 STEAM FUND at CFOS
launched the world premier of “ALIVE AGAIN” featuring Singer-songwriter and trauma survivor, Theresa Sareo for public school children in Livingston Manor and Roscoe. In the fall of 2023, we brought the program to Liberty High School and the Monticello Central School District’s RJK Middle School. In the Spring of 2024, STEAM will be presenting the ALIVE AGAIN program to Veteran’s as the recipient of this year’s Make A Difference Grant presented by the Community Foundation of Orange & Sullivan. READ MORE
This impactful program provides students the space to express their own ideas regarding compassion, empathy, kindness, respect and their aspirations in life in reference to disabilities and acceptance.
BETH, SCOTT & FRIENDS
Beth and Scott Bierko are a husband and wife team of award-winning, singer-songwriters and arts-ineducation specialists specializing in social emotional learning (SEL).
Since 1993, Beth & Scott have performed thousands of cultural arts programs including school assemblies, camp and library concerts and interactive workshops for children, teens and adults. READ MORE
Professional Development Programs
STEAM Fund provides professional development workshops that equip participants with practical strategies for stress reduction using mindfulness and breathing exercises. By implementing these techniques, participants enhance their overall well-being, increase their resilience, and create a positive environment.
We offer workshops that integrate care, music and motion offering a variety of versions of the workshop allowing flexibility to accommodate different time constraints. READ MORE
shandelee music festival artist and performance programs
Through a special partnership with the Shandelee Music Festival, STEAM Fund brings world-class musicians into schools and community spaces to share their artistry. These Artist Workshop and Performance Programs combine live music with interactive learning, giving students the chance to engage directly with professional performers, explore different musical traditions, and discover the connections between creativity and education.
Each program features acclaimed Shandelee Festival artists—internationally recognized performers and dedicated teaching artists—who tailor their workshops to inspire curiosity, collaboration, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
world-class artists, inspiring the next generation
weekend of chamber music artist & performance programs
Through a partnership with the Weekend of Chamber Music (WCM), STEAM Fund brings students into the heart of music-making—where creativity, collaboration, and discovery come alive. Founded in 1994 and rooted in the Catskills and Upper Delaware region, WCM is known for reimagining chamber music as a living, evolving art form, blending tradition with innovation in performances and workshops that feel fresh, welcoming, and deeply connected to community.
Together with STEAM Fund, WCM offers school-based and community programs that invite students not just to listen, but to step inside the music. From dynamic Artist Workshops and Performances, to joyful Improvisation for Everyone sessions, to ambitious Making an Opera residencies, students engage directly with professional musicians in hands-on, creative experiences.
Each program is designed to spark curiosity, foster empathy, and show that music isn’t only something to hear—it’s something to build, share, and live.
where creativity meets connection through music.
download AIE & SEL educational opportunities info packages here
STEAM FUND is proud to award scholarships for deserving graduating seniors in our community.
STEAM’s Scholarship program provides Music Achievement Awards and the John Philip Sousa Award to graduating seniors in Livingston Manor and Liberty annually.
steam videos
thanks to our generous partners and supporters
