WHO WE ARE
OUR MISSION
We empower and transform the next generation of future music legends by bringing together exceptional young musicians from around the world and giving them opportunities, mentorships, and a community – where they can collaborate, perform, and create. As a Brooklyn-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we help young artists grow and thrive at no cost to them or their families. Through a variety of programs, they develop their skills, build lasting relationships, and inspire audiences – while nurturing their own sense of global citizenship. Itʼs not just about giving musicians opportunities; itʼs about giving them purpose, confidence, and a creative community that many have never had access to.
EXECUTIVE TEAM:
DAVE MILLER | Co-Founder, Board Chair
Fearless co-founder of KRFK, finance expert, and multi-hundred-million-dollar project manager. Dave is a composer/producer/multi-instrumentalist who has composed for television and industrials, and has been in the NYC music scene for 30+ years. At Kids Rock For Kids, Dave scouts new talent, mentors young bands, produces local and global collaboration projects, and leads strategic direction for the organization.
LISA SCHORR | Co-Founder, Board Secretary
Tenacious co-founder of KRFK, director of marketing, operations and events. A lifelong singer and former youth vocal coach, the multi-talented Lisa led a team as an e-commerce senior marketing and merchandising strategist at The Knot.com, and continues to oversee operations at Brooklyn Tech Guy, a premiere IT consultancy in New York City. At Kids Rock For Kids, Lisa combines her passion for music and experience mentoring young performers with decades of leadership in operations management and marketing. Lisa nurtures performer and community relationships, provides strategic direction to ensure brand visibility and growth, and creates impactful events for our musicians.
GARY FORTUNE | Global Music Industry Advisor, Board Member
Gary Fortune is a senior executive with more than 30 years of experience in the global music industry, spanning artist development, international strategy, and cross-sector partnerships. Gary brings his deep industry knowledge and extensive network to help young artists find meaningful opportunities onstage and beyond.
Originally from New Zealand, Gary began his career at BMG and later helped launch Zomba Records NZ before leading the country’s first government-backed music export office a nonprofit management role that blended industry insight with public-sector collaboration.
He spent over a decade supporting New Zealand artists entering global markets and went on to co-found Mondo.NYC, an international music, arts, and tech conference based in New York City. Now based in Brooklyn, he remains committed to artist development through both professional and volunteer work—mentoring talent, building industry pathways, and helping the next generation of musicians grow with confidence, opportunity, and support.
MICHELLE RILEY | Board Treasurer
Meticulous bookkeeper of KRFK, Michelle brings years of experience overseeing multi-national nonprofit bookkeeping and organizational accountability.
BOARD MEMBERS:
CHRISTINA KIELY | TV & Media Producer and Consultant
Christina Kiely is an Emmy-nominated documentary film and television producer, writer and director with over 25 years in the industry (ABC News, New York Times Television, A&E, PBS, CNN International and more) — and currently serves on the executive board of New York Women in Film and Television. A singer and rock musician in the NY Music scene who has also toured the Czech Republic, Christina leverages her extensive background in documentary filmmaking and music to mentor young talents, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the media landscape.
JOSH ROTHSTEIN | Video Production and Mentor
Josh is an award-winning director and photographer who creates multi-platform solutions for some of today’s most iconic brands and artists. Josh began his 25 year career as a photographer capturing rock legends (Steven Tyler, Jack White, John Legend , and more!). Throughout his career, Josh has sought out creative opportunities that are rooted in his passion for storytelling and positive impact. Through his recently launched “Dinner Roll TV” — a media training and content creation program designed for underserved NYC high school students — Josh brings his expertise (and students!) to Kids Rock For Kids by mentoring aspiring young videographers and photographers.
JEFF HOFFMAN | Sound Design & Audio Production
Jeff has been a professional audio engineer at some of NYC’s top recording studios: RPM Sound Studios (formerly Electric Ladyland) and The Orchard, as well as BIRS Studio in New Jersey. An experienced music producer, arranger, and musician in the NYC music scene for over 30 years, Jeff guides emerging musicians and teens interested in audio production, providing essential training and resources to help them achieve professional sound quality and artistic vision.
JOSH MARGOLIS | Live Music Consultant
An expert music director and live-event planner, coordinating unforgettable performances for artists. Josh has directed and produced hundreds of shows at the top venues in NYC for up-and-coming bands and artists.
JEAN-MICHEL KIENTZ | Jacques of all trades
Multi-skilled advisor supporting organizational growth and youth-focused initiatives. Jean-Michel contributes to the team by implementing safety protocols and strategies that foster a supportive environment for youth development and engagement.
