"I Can” Summer Youth Employment Program @ THEARC

The Summer Youth Program has been in full swing for two weeks
now and I promised you an update on the activities. Since pictures
are worth a thousand words, here is a sampling of the activities.





Mr. Emery, building engineer, shows a young man how to roll up a carpet.
From picking up the grounds, painting and learning about theater production, youths in the Summer Employment Program learn various skills at THEARC.











Nolvert, the theater's technical director working with summer youths.

WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?
Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org/ or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

BEEHIVE OF ACTIVITY AT THEARC!

Walking down the hall and up the stairs today I marveled at the beehive of activity going on with art classes at Corcoran School of Art, ballet classes at The Washington Ballet music lessons at Levine School of Music and summer camp at the Boys & Girls Club. It is very satisfying to see THEARC come alive helping to fulfill our partners’ missions.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children..
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?

Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

“I Can” Summer Youth Employment Program @ THEARC

This week was the kick off for the Summer Youth Program @ THEARC and this year’s youths will have the privilege of participating in workshops on Communications, Finance and Personal Development. This is a new nine week program for kids ages 14-18 to give them the opportunity to obtain meaningful work experience in the communities where they live. Young people will also attend the following four workshops on:

1. Good Communications
2. Personal Development
3. Financial Responsibility
4. THEARC at THEARC – A unique program that introduces youth to the wonderful world of theater.


As the summer continues I will interview several of our participants and get their input on the employment and workshop programs to make sure we are realizing our goals of:
· Being an employee
· Importance of community pride and social awareness
· Develop levels of self-esteem and integrity
· Learn money management skills
· Enhance their social skills and discover good leadership qualities within themselves

Stay tuned to see if the kids will respond "I Can"!

WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?
Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org/ or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

CAMPS @ THEARC

Swimming, Fields Trips & Music Oh My!

Want your children to have an enriching summer experience? Listed below are camps that two partners of THEARC are hosting.

All-Stars Summer Camp at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington starts June 22 and runs thru August 14, 2009, Monday-Friday 7am-6pm. Youth ages: (5-12). Current Membership is required: $25 fee. Cost: $100 per week (1st child), $80 per week (2nd child) and $60 per week (3rd child). Contact: 202-610-9707 for more info.

ATTENTION MUSIC LOVERS!

Summer at Levine @ THEARC ’09 has several camps:

Check out Early childhood & Elementary Music from Babies to 7 year olds. Suzuki Flute on Saturdays and during the week: Traditional Strings, Suzuki Strings, Private Voice, Piano and Winds. For more information please call 202-610-2036 or go to www.levineschool.org/summer
No classes July 3rd & 4th. We offer tuition assistance.


WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?
Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org/ or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

CALLING ALL CONTESTANTS! GOT TALENT?

If you can sing, dance, do stand up comedy or poetry then beat your feet to THEARC Theater June 5th at 7:30 p.m. Auditions will be held by Tommy Ford’s Last 1 Standing Show. Grand prize package valued at over $50,000 includes production and management contract and more!

Cohosted by comedian Eddie Bryant. One time administrative and audition fee of $25. For more info call 877-723-8418 or go to www.thelast1standing.com.



WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?

Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.


Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

DO YOU WANNA DANCE?

If you enjoy dancing or want just plan old exercise The Washington Ballet has just released their summer schedule for adults here at THEARC. No experience necessary just come and enjoy! All classes are drop-in; no registration required. $10 per class or ask for a class card special. The schedule is as follows:

MONDAY- African 6:30-7:45 PM Instructor: Sylvia Soumah

TUESDAY- Ballet 6:30-7:45 PM Instructor: Monica Johnson

WEDNESDAY -Pilates 6:30-7:45 PM Instructor: Katrina Toews

THURSDAY- Yoga 6:30-7:45 PM Instructor: Keisha Johnson & Diana Aljets

For more info call 202.889.8150 or visit www.washingtonballet.org/thearc


WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?
Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

MOTHERHOOD & MENTORING!

Ms. Jones passionately believes that better parenting is the key to helping children. “Once parents are able to become self-sufficient and more confident in their parenting, our community will be a better place to live and work,” she says in The Washington Times article titled D.C. mentor honors mothers.

“You have the power to shape your child’s future or not” is the motto of Parklands Community Center (PCC). Brenda H. Jones the founder and executive director hosted the first Mother’s Day Gala Awards Dinner Saturday night at the Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus (THEARC) on Mississippi Ave Southeast. For PCC parents who are trying to get their lives back on track, the Mother’s Day Gala Awards Dinner is one of many special things that Ms. Jones does for parents.

The mission of PCC’s signature project is called “Move-On, A Life Changing Program”
where parents must attend a certain number of sessions and learn the tools to provide a healthy, nurturing environment for their children.

Thirty years ago Ms. Jones started PCC in the small basement of an apartment and is now a valued partner at THEARC where she works hard to provide comprehensive support and strengthening programs to help parents meet their goals.


WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?

Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

WASHINGTON MIDDLE SCHOOL for GIRLS

Small school + Parental involvement = success for young girls


Congratulations to WMSG for winning $100,000 grant from Fight For Children in the independent category! And a big thank you to Fight For Children, an independent non-profit organization committed to improving education in DC schools, for recognizing the qualities that make WMSG such a success.

As Sister Mary Bourdon said in a recent Washington Post interview “If kids are even barely passing and we can connect with their parents, we take them." “We want the school to get inside the girls so they are not living in two worlds,” Bourdon explained. “They get teased in their neighborhoods for wearing the uniform and carrying the books….” Washington Middle School for Girls is one of the ten non profit partners located at THEARC where Sister Mary is a familiar face.
If you know a sixth-grade child who can benefit from what the WMSG has to offer please have the family contact Sister Mary at 202-678-1113. The Washington Middle School for Girls offers a solid and holistic education in the Catholic educational tradition, featuring intellectual challenge, respect for diversity, and support for the spiritual, social and emotional growth of each student. More information about the school is available at http://www.thearcdc.org/partners/middleschool.asp.
Washington Post Metro columnist Marc Fisher has an in depth interview with Sister Mary in his article Turn Around Starts With Students.

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

TEN FOR THE PRICE OF ONE

DONATIONS THAT IS!

Are you frustrated about wanting to help more than one charity and can’t decide which one to contribute to? By donating to the One In A Million campaign of THEARC,
you can help ten non profit organizations with one donation.


WHAT IS THE ONE IN A MILLION CAMPAIGN?

The One in a Million Campaign for THEARC asks caring citizens to be “One in a Million” and support the THEARC by spreading the word and contributing to the Campaign. If one million citizens donate $10 each, THEARC will have a $10 million endowment that will free the nine partners at THEARC from the expenses of operating the building and enable them to serve more children and families so that all of the children in Washington, DC can feel like “One in a Million”.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington
Children’s National Medical Center
Covenant House Washington
The Corcoran Gallery of Art
Levine School of Music
Parklands Community Center
The Washington Ballet
The Washington Middle School for Girls
Trinity (Washington, DC) University
THEARC Theater

The above ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children. Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? For more information about THEARC and to make a donation please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

FREDERICK DOUGLASS INTERVIEW PT 4

FREDERICK DOUGLASS 1818-1895; ABOLITIONIST, ORATOR AND STATESMAN.

Born into slavery in February of 1818 on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, his future was as bleak as any slave before him and he suffered great pain and indignity.

QUESTION: Why Didn't Slaves Fight Back At Their Owners?

Mr. Douglass' answer: At this distance of time, it may seem odd that the slave did not try to fight back. The truth of the matter is that there were many slaves who did not fight back. Many of them were killed; many of them were banished into the south-into the deep south-those states of Florida, Louisana, Mississippi. But perhaps the main reason slaves did not fight back at their owners was because they felt that it was futile to do so. The slave-owners had guns, not only the whips. So out of a sense of fear slaves sometimes found other ways to fight back at their owners than just rebelling. Many times slaves would adopt a kind of "slow-down." They would act as if they didn't understand what directions they were being given by the overseers; they would act "stupid;" they would act "dumb;" they would act as if they couldn't understand what the owner or the slave overseer was trying to make them understand. The reason for that, it is my belief, is that slaves instinctively understood that the most important thing as a slave was to stay alive. I recall my Grandpappy Isaac telling me that if a slave was dead, he could not do anything, but that every day a slave was alive was another day that a slave might find some way in which he could escape from slavery."

ASK FREDERICK DOUGLASS A QUESTION!

To honor his legacy, a life-like animation, set in an exact replica of Douglass' study in his Anacostia home was created for THEARC and is available to the community. Interactive performances are also possible where the animation will answer questions from the audience! More than two hours of Douglass' famous speeches are recorded in varying lengths, complexity and programmed with coordinated body movements. The end result is dramatic and awe inspiring!


During Black History month Mr. Douglass’ answers to the pre programmed questions will be posted in THEARC blog.

For more information please email info@thearcdc.org or call 202-4-THEARC or 202-484-3272.



Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

AN INTERVIEW WITH FREDERICK DOUGLASS PT 3

FREDERICK DOUGLASS 1818-1895; ABOLITIONIST, ORATOR AND STATESMAN

Born into slavery in February of 1818 on the Eastern shore of Maryland, his future was as bleak as any slave before him, and he suffered great pain and indignity.

QUESTION: Did you see a lot of families broken apart when you were a slave?

Mr. Douglass' answer: "Yes, many. Because you must understand that keeping families broken up was the main technique by which the slaveowners were able to maintain their control over the slave. If we recognize that it is in our families that we begin to develop a sense of our own individual identity and if we don't have that family then we cannot form that identity. And of course, when we have no control over who we are-when we have no sense of who we are-then, we basically listen to what anyone tells us to do. And so, I can say, yes I saw many families broken apart, because I saw many slaves and many of them had no sense of who they really were."

QUESTION: How did slave-owners prevent escapes and rebellions?

Mr. Douglass' answer: "Well, through fear... through creating a reign of terror. The fact that a slave could get whipped just by giving a glance that was misinterpreted by the overseer or the slaveowner-it caused the slave not to want to do anything, except what he was being asked or told and commanded to do.

QUESTION: Was there any point (any specific instances) where you were about to give up?

Mr. Douglass' answer: One instance was when I was living with Edward Covey, the slave-breaker. During those first months with him, when he was whipping me - it seemed like almost everyday - I felt as if my life had no purpose, no significance, and I was about ready to give up.
But somehow everyday came, and everyday I was awake, and everyday there...it seemed like it might be a possibility that I might not be whipped, and as a result there might be a chance of something better happening.

ASK FREDERICK DOUGLASS A QUESTION!

To honor his legacy, a life-like animation, set in an exact replica of Douglass' study in his Anacostia home was created for THEARC and is available to the community. Interactive performances are also possible where the animation will answer questions from the audience! More than two hours of Douglass' famous speeches are recorded in varying lengths and complexity and programmed with coordinated body movements. The end result is dramatic and awe inspiring!

For more information please email info@thearcdc.org or call 202-4-THEARC or 202-484-3272.

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

AN INTERVIEW WITH FREDERICK DOUGLASS PT2

FREDERICK DOUGLASS 1818-1895 ORATOR..ABOLITIONIST..STATESMAN

Born into slavery in February of 1818 on the Eastern

shore of Maryland, his future was as bleak as any

slave before him, and he suffered great pain and indignity. But Frederick Douglass found a way out, and he led the way for others. As a child he learned to read and discovered the power of the written and spoken word. As a young adult, after escaping slavery, he used that power to fight for justice and equal opportunity.

QUESTION: How did you eventually escape from slavery? Did you devise a plan or scheme or did you just one day decide to go?

Mr. Douglass' reply: "I escaped from slavery on the 3rd of September of 1838, from the city of Baltimore. And I could not have done it without the very very strong support and guidance of Miss Anna Murray, who shortly after my escape agreed to become my wife. On the 14th of September of that same year (1838) we were married. So, it was not just one day I decided to go; we planned for several weeks. And in fact I might say that I had been planning an escape from slavery or at least I had the desire to escape from slavery from the moment I realized that I was a slave."

ASK FREDERICK DOUGLASS A QUESTION!

To honor his legacy, a life-like animation, set in an exact replica of Douglass' study in his Anacostia home was created for THEARC and is available to the community. Interactive performances are also possible where the animation will answer questions from the audience! More than two hours of Douglass' famous speeches are recorded in varying lengths and complexity and programmed with coordinated body movements. The end result is dramatic and awe inspiring!


Come see Frederick Douglass answer your questions this week at THEARC for Black History Month! Performances are Tuesday and Wednesday and are open to the public.

For more information please email info@thearcdc.org or call 202-4-THEARC or 202-484-3272.

WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?

Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

AN INTERVIEW WITH FREDERICK DOUGLASS PT1

Frederick Douglass 1818-1895

Born into slavery in February of 1818 on the Eastern
Shore of Maryland, his future was as bleak as any slave
before him, and he suffered great pain and indignity.
As a young adult, after escaping slavery, he used that
power to fight for justice and equal opportunity.

QUESTION: How were you caught when you first tried to escape from slavery?


Mr. Douglass' reply: "The first attempt that I had made to escape occured during my second year of living on the farm of Mr. William Freeland. I was going to escape with four of my friends on that plantation but we were betrayed. There was a fifth person who was joining us by the name of Sandy Jenkins. I'm not sure - in fact, none of us would be willing to admit at all - that we thought that Sandy, as close a friend and brother as he was to us, that he would have betrayed us. But, I believe that if he did not, then the truth is, perhaps our behavior - we seemed at times to be a little too joyous, a little too happy - that our behavior was just a little different from what it had normally been. And of course slave masters and slave owners were very very very watchful. And anytime they saw behavior that they thought was at all different it aroused their suspicions. So I would be willing to say that perhaps we created a certain amount of suspicion within the mind of Mr. William Freeland. And also there was the possibility that someone, hopefully not, but perhaps it was Sandy Jenkins did in fact betray us."


YOU CAN ASK FREDERICK DOUGLASS A QUESTION!

To honor his legacy, a life-like animation, set in an exact replica of Douglass' study in his Anacostia home was created for THEARC and is available to the community. Interactive performances are also possible where the animation will answer questions from the audience! More than two hours of Douglass' famous speeches are recorded in varying lengths and complexity and programmed with coordinated body movements. The end result is dramatic and awe inspiring!



“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

MEET FREDERICK DOUGLASS!

Frederick Douglass, the internationally acclaimed abolitionist, orator and
statesman who made his home in Washington, DC's Ward 8 for almost two

decades, will be the center piece of this year's Black History Month

celebrations on February 3-5 at Southeast Washington's Town Hall Education Arts & Recreation Campus (THEARC), 1901 Mississippi Ave.,

SE, Washington, DC.

ASK FREDERICK DOUGLASS A QUESTION!

"Living History with Frederick Douglass" features a life-like, 6-foot-tall

animatron of one of the most prominent figures in African-American and

United States history set in an exact replica of Douglass' study in his Anacostia home ("Cedar Hill"). With coordinated body movements and gestures Douglass is programmed to answer more than 55 questions from

audiences and can recite more than two hours of excerpts from his famous speeches were recored in varying lengths.

"The animatron offers an interactive, educational and cultural experience that helps preserve the legacy of Frederick Douglass and his impact on the United States and here in southeast DC,"

said Edmund Fleet, executive director of THEARC. "We are proud to share it with our neighbors year-round but particularly during Black History Month."

COME JOIN US AND SEE HISTORY COME TO LIFE!

All programs will take place in THEARC Theatre. The events are open to the public. For additional information please email info@thearcdc.org or call 202-4-THEARC or 202-484-3282.

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

PIANIST JOHN DAVIS PERFORMS COMPOSITIONS BY

Slave Pianist/Composer Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins.

On Friday, January 30th at 11:00 am pianist John Davis, known for his presentations of the life and music of the slave pianist/composer Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins and a wide-ranging piano repertoire rooted in African-American music of the Deep South, will perform in THEARC Theater. Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins, an African-American slave, would barely speak, but displayed an incredible talent for playing piano. He was
Composing music by the age of six and toured the nation performing. Davis’ performance brings to life Wiggins’ compositions and are a testament to the great influence music had on both his and Tom Wiggins’ lives. This performance is free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first served. For more information, please contact the Levine School of Music at THEARC at 202-610-2036.

WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?
Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

WASHINGTON MIDDLE SCHOOL for GIRLS

Small school + Parental involvement =
success for young girls

SISTER MARY AT
WMSG'S 10TH

YEAR CELEBRATION!

“If kids are even barely passing and we can connect with their parents, we take them,” says Sister Mary Bourdon in an article recently featured in The Washington Post. “We want the school to get inside the girls so they are not living in two worlds,” Bourdon says. “They get teased in their neighborhoods for wearing the uniform and carrying the books….” Washington Middle School for Girls is one of the ten non profit partners located at THEARC where Sister Mary is a familiar face.

Washington Middle School for Girls is Recruiting New Students

for the 2008-2009 school year. If you know a sixth-grade child who can benefit from what the WMSG has to offer please have the family contact Sister Mary at 202-678-1113. The Washington Middle School for Girls offers a solid and holistic education in the Catholic educational tradition, featuring intellectual challenge, respect for diversity, and support for the spiritual, social and emotional growth of each student. More information about the school is available at http://www.thearcdc.org/partners/middleschool.asp.
Washington Post Metro columnist Marc Fisher has an in depth interview with Sister Mary in his article Turn Around Starts With Students.

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Your donations help each charity fulfil their missions.

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

.

HOPE LIVES ON! CONGRATULATIONS PRESIDENT OBAMA!

Pictures of then Senator Obama's visit to THEARC. Become a member of THEARC for free! WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?

Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org/ or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

Congratulations President-elect Barack Obama!

When Senator Barack Obama visited THEARC back in the fall of 2007, his election to the presidency was a dream, vision and a goal. Well Barack Obama achieved his goal of becoming president and showed the girls and boys of Ward 8 that dreams do come true.

WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?

Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”

MUSIC, MENTORING & MAGIC @ THEARC THEATRE

Demetrius is a part-time sound technician at THEARC and is about to turn 18. He lives with his mother, stepfather, five sisters and one brother in southeast DC. “Dee” loves music – particularly gospel and R&B --and dreams of a career as a professional theater technical director. His story is emblematic of so many who visit and participate in the programs and services of THEARC.

During a school field trip to THEARC two years ago, Dee participated in a multi-medium educational seminar taught at THEARC Theater, the only theater of any kind located in southeast DC. At the seminar Dee was the only person to take up the offer of THEARC Theater’s technical director-- to be mentored in theater technical management.

The first thing Dee and his mentor focused on was his failing grades. With his mentor, Dee pulled up his grades and was able to graduate in 2007 from HD Woodson High School in southeast DC.

As an intern at THEARC Theater, Dee learned how to set up sound systems and mix the set-up with different instruments for various bands. At live concerts he learned how to use different microphones for different instruments, mix sounds together, adjust sound equalizers during concerts and record music to CDs. “It’s hard to record to a CD, as you must capture each instrument” says Dee when asked about the challenges of his role.

After his graduation, Dee was offered employment at THEARC Theater as a production assistant by Building Bridges Across the River (BBAR), the nonprofit organization that built THEARC and now leads the collaborative of nonprofit agencies based at THEARC, as well as manages THEARC Theater

This success encouraged Dee to apply to The Art Institute of Washington and work toward an audio production degree. Sadly, after one semester he had to drop out due to financial problems. However, Dee still dreams of pursuing a career as a sound technician and is saving his earnings from his new paid position at THEARC so he can resume his studies.

Dee is a good news story—and THEARC has more good news to share. Simply put, by offering opportunity and exposure to programs and services not previously available, THEARC offers hope and opportunity to the young people of southeast DC and is rebuilding this long-challenged area one young person at a time.

THEARC is a state-of-the-art campus, managed by nonprofit organization BBAR, which, along with its nine nonprofit partners—including The Washington Ballet, The Corcoran Gallery of Art and the Levine School of Music, to name a few—provides cultural and social services for at-risk children and youth.

THEARC 365-seat theater is the only theater of any kind east of the Anacostia River, where families can come together for recitals, graduations, town hall meetings and dance, music and stage performances. THEARC campus is a stunning example of what works to help children and families break the cycle of poverty.

You can help change the lives of local young people in need right now. Please support Building Bridges Across the River at THEARC by clicking on the donate button.

You can also contribute by calling 202-4-THEARC (202-484-3272). Building Bridges Across the River at THEARC is a member of the United Way #8884 and the Combined Federal Campaign #97182 of the National Capital Area.

Building Bridges Across the River at THEARC has also been selected to the 2008-2009 Catalogue of Philanthropy as one of Washington DC’s best small charities. In these challenging economic times, it’s nice to know that your donation will be put to good use, as BBAR has been selected for the Catalogue of Philanthropy based on its merit, impact, financial transparency and cost effectiveness.


Together we can keep the good news coming. For Dee, and for thousands of youth and children in need. Thank You & Best Wishes for a Very Happy Holiday Season!

RUTHIE FOSTER ROCKING AND ROLLING @ THEARC

The benefit concert with Ruthie Foster was a great success! Playing to a full house Ruthie made us laugh, cry and shout with joy while we were joyfully clapping our approval. She connects to the audience with her life stories and folk style playing. As in past shows, students from Howard University ushered. No where in the city is there a group of polite, fine young men and women who perform their duties with such grace.


WHY IS THEARC NEEDED?

Shockingly, the U.S. Census Bureau 2005 American Community Survey shows that our nation’s capital has the highest rate of childhood poverty of any jurisdiction in the United States. Three out of ten children in Washington, DC live at or below the poverty line—.

WHAT IS THEARC?

Ten non profit partners at THEARC have come together under one roof to help children.
Since its opening in 2005, Town Hall Education, Arts and Recreation Campus-THEARC- has become a national prototype combining social, cultural and health services. It is a $27 million 110,000 square foot center on 16.5 acres of land in Southeast Washington, DC. THEARC provides a daily safe haven for the children it serves, with a wide range of arts, educational, recreational, health programs and services. In addition there is a 365-seat theatre (the only theatre east of the Anacostia River) a regulation size gymnasium, computer lab, art gallery, state-of-the-art music and dance studios.

Will you contribute to help each charity fulfill their missions? Just click on the donate button! For more information about THEARC please go to our website http://www.thearcdc.org/ or you may call 1-202-4-THEARC (1-202-484-3272).

Selected for the 2008-2009 Catalogue for Philanthropy
“One of the best small charities in the greater Washington region”