Your support of Young Audiences New Jersey is invaluable.Contributions from you and other donors help our artists transform lives…lives, like Michael’s.Michael is a second grader in Hillsborough.For years he has struggled to overcome profound fear when facing new and uncertain situations.This is his story:
…From the first moment she heard his voice, Michael’s mom, Karen, felt the calming presence of Young Audiences artist, Rochel Garner Coleman.Rochel was at the school to perform his show, I, Nat Love, that tells the true story of an ex-slave who becomes a cowboy and explores the West.Karen explained Michael’s anxiety to Rochel.Rochel took the time to speak with Michael to explain what would happen during the show and to dispel his fears.As a result, Michael walked through the doors of the auditorium to attend the first school assembly of his life.Later that night, when his Dad asked how he was brave enough to attend the assembly and demonstrate the lasso in front of the school, Michael told his Dad, “It felt like Rochel was looking out for me.”
A transformative moment between an artist and a child can impact that child for a lifetime.Of the experience, Michael’s Mom wrote to Rochel,
I am sure you have made a difference in the lives of many children by the message that you share, but words cannot express the impact you have made on my son.Thank you for making a difference in my Michael's life!
We know you share our belief that every child deserves an education rich with transformative arts experiences, so please take a moment and make a tax-deductible contribution.On behalf of Michael, and the thousands of children we serve, thank you.
