HFI and BHS Operational Alignment

A Stronger Future in Harmony: BHS and HFI Operational Alignment

For more than six decades, Harmony Foundation International has served as a trusted steward of philanthropic gifts dedicated to the power of singing.

Founded in 1959, the Foundation exists to ensure that the joy, connection, and lifelong benefits of singing continue to enrich lives for generations to come. Over time, as the Barbershop Harmony Society’s mission expanded, the Foundation evolved as well — focusing on long-term stewardship, endowment growth, and responsible grantmaking.

In recent years, Harmony Foundation International and the Barbershop Harmony Society took important steps to strengthen their partnership and ensure the highest standards of governance and accountability. As of January 1, 2026, the Foundation operates as a Type I Supporting Organization, a structure widely used by university and cultural foundations to protect donor intent and ensure long-term sustainability.

What does that mean for donors?

It means your gift is:

  • Carefully stewarded

  • Professionally managed

  • Used exclusively to support singing, music education, and community impact

  • Aligned with the mission and future of the Barbershop Harmony Society

Harmony Foundation International exists so that your generosity today can continue to inspire singers tomorrow — creating a lasting legacy through harmony.

David Mills, HFI President & Board of Trustees Chair Kevin Keller, BHS Board of Directors President

dmills@harmonyfoundation.org BHSPresident@barbershop.org

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Yes. As a Type I Supporting Organization, Harmony Foundation International (HFI) will remain a public charity. Your contributions are eligible for the maximum deductibility limits under the IRS code. This reclassification does not change the tax status for your donation.

  • HFI will now be legally structured to exclusively support the specific mission and purposes of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS). The funds and activities will continue to be directed toward benefiting that specific supported mission.

  • BHS and HFI will work closely with both programs to discuss future plans. We anticipate positive collaborations to continue the meaningful partnerships that have been established.

  • No. The reclassification formalizes the relationship between HFI and BHS, and it ensures more direct alignment between the two organizations in their operations and decision making.

  • All 2025 donors will continue to enjoy the same recognition. Future stewardship efforts will be evaluated to ensure that our donors are recognized for their impact on the mission.

  • For donors to HFI, there are no new restrictions.

  • As a Type I Supporting Organization, HFI will operate as a subsidiary of BHS, which will be responsible for its oversight and operations. This model simplifies and consolidates mission and financial management, creating the potential for cost reduction and mission enhancement.

  • We will be working through each decision related to the operations of each organization as carefully as possible with consideration for the impact on each individual and our broader community, and will thoughtfully approach each necessary change. We are committed to making decisions that are as fair and supportive to our staff as possible, recognizing their invaluable contributions to our success, while keeping the interests of our members and donors at the forefront. A transition of this magnitude requires extensive evaluation of resources and careful decision making. We will notify each individual impacted as we move through the process. 

  • This structure was established through mutual agreement by both boards, reflecting a shared confidence in its potential for long-term success. It aligns HFI and BHS in mission, operations, and in their service to members and donors alike.

  • No. Harmony Foundation International, Inc. will remain an active 501(c)(3) nonprofit but will transition to a Type I Supporting Organization of the Barbershop Harmony Society. It will continue as a separate legal entity focused on endowment management and grant-making in support of the BHS and its ecosystem of chapters, districts, and subsidiary organizations operating under the BHS governance system.