Awarded to: Mayra F. and Samantha M.

Mayra and Samantha conducted drum-making workshops for youth and their mentors and big brothers and sisters, building self-esteem by providing a creative outlet.

“Thank you so much for providing a grant to our program through Youth²– Youth Helping Youth. One of the teens will offer classes in creating musical instruments out of gourds. She will teach the classes at our “Saturdays at Skidmore Program” where 20 children come to the campus to enjoy a few hours of fellowship with their mentors and Big Brothers and Big Sisters.

“The children enrolled in Saratoga Mentoring Program are from single parent families with a low family income. Their families struggle with serious problems including domestic violence, substance abuse, illness of a family member and other issues. The children, ages 5-18, often lack opportunities to take part in art classes and other cultural offerings due to lack of family finances.

“Your grant will enable the children to gain confidence while learning a new skill. Activities such as art classes go a long way in helping a child develop self-esteem and self-awareness.

“Thank you for your help Youth²! The kids felt good about themselves and the beautiful drums they made.”