I WANT TO RAISE $20,000 FOR MY NON-PROFIT
THIS YEAR, AND HERE'S LOTS OF REASONS WHY!
“I have never been more impressed by a group focused on
youth than I have been with the Alabama Blues Project.
Your child is welcomed with open arms from day one, and each practice thereafter; he is immersed in all aspects of the blues.
I only wish that I had known about the group sooner!”
– Carrie, mother of Darrell (age 10) and Hayden (age 8)
“Playing in a group is fun, and we all pour our hearts into the music.” – Elizabeth (age 11)
I need your help! I would like to raise $20,000 for the Alabama Blues Project by 2010. Donations help scholarship students for our After-School and Summertime Blues Camps, much-needed equipment replacements and expanding our outreach to more and more children! Please help us by donating what you can and by spreading the word of this worthy cause.
“I personally thank you for allowing my child to attend Blues
Camp. You all teach the children such valuable lessons for life.
As a single mom, it helps to have positive reinforcement.
Like the old proverb states: It takes a village to raise a child.
Thanks a bunch!” – Jackie, mother of Jayla (age 9)
“I have learned to love everyone.” – Kaylynn (age 10)
In our Blues Camps, which are open to the entire community, we make special efforts to attract at-risk children. At least 70% of our children are considered at-risk. We partner with Tuscaloosa Housing Authority, YMCA and Boys & Girls Club to bring a diverse mix of children together. In 2004, we were awarded the national Coming Up Taller Award by the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities.
“He has been very happy to be a part of the
Blues Camp experience. He likes the people, music,
snacks and the many friends he has made while in Blues Camp.
He has a greater ppreciation for a variety of music –
blues, classical, pop and gospel. He has greater discipline
in his studies at school, appreciates the need to be on
time and has a stronger desire to do his best at all times.”
– Booker, father of Brandon (age 10)
“I have learned that a good attitude affects everyone,
you have to have eye contact, and you have to give respect to get respect. This is the best camp ever!” – Brittany (age 10)
“He wishes it lasted longer!”
– Shawnta, mother of Keondice (age 12)
Our 60+ Blues Camp kids are the stars of their Open House performances. In 2009, they will also have a chance to meet-and-greet the 2008 Blues Music Award winner for “Best Male Soul Blues Artist,” Bobby Rush, who will perform later in the night. The show is a celebration of our 11th annual After-School Blues Camp, in which the students will have been learning life skills, blues history, and performance skills over the course of two semesters!
“My daughter drew a heart on her harmonica case to
remind herself that you have to open your heart when
you play the harmonica. She is blossoming in large
part to the loving atmosphere and sound guidance she
receives at Blues Camp” – Laura, mother of Shira (age 14)
“Getting to play at the Bama Theatre is an
excellent chance to express yourself.” – Karia (age 10)
“Due to this program, my child’s confidence has risen to a new level.” – Evelyn, mother of Toni (age 10)
By supporting this cause and giving financial assistance, you will have the deep satisfaction of giving our children the rare and exciting opportunity to take center stage, as well as continue Blues Camps for years to come – getting bigger and better each year as we keep expanding and reaching out to more and more children. The Alabama Blues Project continues to excel in its mission to preserve Alabama’s rich blues heritage while passing it on to the children through our award-winning blues educational programs.
“He has learned to take risks in uncomfortable situations
as well as the always good life skills stressed each week.
I don’t believe your children can ever have too many good
role models in their life. Peer pressure is so hard and it begins
so early, and I am very thankful my son is learning about life and music from great teachers.” – Gail, mother of Jonathan (age 15)
“My favorite part of Blues Camp is everything. I’m having a lot of fun!” – Durrell (age 15)
“It has been an experience that she would never
have had – discovering that she could sing.
She has learned that if you work and want to do something
you can. I am proud of the Blues Camp because it has
given her a lot of confidence in herself.”
– Mary, mother of Dajah (age 11)
Many of our students have little or no exposure to the arts, and these Blues Camps give them the opportunity to experience hands-on music instruction from outstanding musicians while building self-esteem through performance, artistic self-expression and an integrated life-skills curriculum. Blues camp has proven particularly successful with our at-risk students who come from some of the most underserved communities in our area. Other blues education programs include an annual Rural School Tour and Blues Artist Residencies which we have presented across the state and beyond, focusing on schools and areas where music and art classes have been cut due to a lack of funding.
“My sons have learned how to be comfortable in front of
people even when you’re not great (yet). It has been so
good in helping them broaden their appreciation of
different people and music. I love that every kid who
comes leaves feeling great and that the instructors
(and everyone who works with the group)
seems to have a real heart for these guys. Thanks!”
– Perri, mother of Peter (age 15) and Thomas (age 10)
“I would like to encourage other people to play the blues.”
– Laney (age 13)
“He struggles very much with social skills due to autism and
it is a blessing that the workers have the understanding and
patience necessary to deal with his challenging behaviors.
He is such a bright and gifted young boy, and experiences
such as Blues Camp have such positive reinforcements for
his strengths as well as helping to modify his weaknesses.”
– Gail, mother of Joshua (age 9)
As a non-profit organization, we depend on individuals like you. The grants we have through National Endowment of the Arts and the Alabama State Council on the Arts require matching funds. Your tax-deductible gift makes a huge difference to us, our community and to the children we serve. By becoming a supporter of our programs you will be joining Nick and Terry Sabans’ Nick’s Kids Fund, Mercedes-Benz, Bonnie Raitt, Alligator Records and many other prestigious and loyal contributors who continue through the years to believe in our mission. Please visit us online at www.alabamablues.org. Thank you!
“Blues Camp is a wonderfully diverse musical experience.
Grace is learning a lot about people, character and the culture
of Blues music. It’s a positive, nurturing learning environment.
I would highly recommend the opportunity to others.”
– Vertis, mother of Grace (age 8)
“I love art and music, so if you like art and music, come to the Summertime and After-School Blues Camps.” – Sara (age 9)
“I have been singing since I was four years old, and Blues Camp is
the best camp I have ever been to in my life!” – Cheyna (age 9)
“My favorite part of Blues Camp is playing the instrument that
I love (drums) and making new friends. I have learned a lot about being nice to other people.” – Evan (age 9)
“When I grow up I want to be on American Idol.” – Tamia (age 8)
“One of Tuscaloosa’s jewels!”
– Andy, father of Peter (age 15) and Thomas (age 10)