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.”