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Helping inner-city kids sing a new song for life.
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The Story
As a young boy, I grew up in an area of Chicago's inner city called "Cabrini-Green". In my teen years the
neighborhood became very rough and dangerous due to gang violence. the pressure of the gangs and wanting to fit in became
more than I could handle. I evenually drop out of high school. After a diffucult time of nickle and dime jobs, I had a wonderful
religious encounter that gave me hope. I returned to school to learn all I could about my passion . . . , Music. I, with
the help of many others, did in fact graduate with a Bachelors in music Education, and a Master's Ceritification from the
Chicago Conservatory Of Music. My keys were that I found hope, and I had people who helped and supported my in every way.
Without someone to encourage you and mentor you, the ratio of success drops dramitcally, especially for inner-city children.
But what could we do?
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 The Sponsorship
In September of 2002, I begin this vocal school, known as Powell Vocal Studio. I am certain that there is
no more powerful instrument in the world than the human voice. it is as unique as a finger print, as diverse as the nations,
as colorful as a rainbow, as powerful as a moving train, and as influentual as an ambassador. There are young boys and girls
in the inner-city of Chicago and other cities, that feel the have no chance, no opportunity, no hope. Some because the don't
have the encouragement at home from parents. Some, because of others siblings, they feel lost in the crowd and some even because
they are so afraid of gangs, guns, and drug dealers, they see no light or life. But they have something greater than all of
these challenges, they have a voice!!!.
Powell vocal Studio, in 2007 started a sponsorship program call "One Child, One Voice. Our goal, to take
8 kids a year, into a study program for singing and public speaking. In that music incorporates math, reading, physics, personal
apperance and self-esteem, we have been able to help some young people to stay clear of drugs and violence by
virtue of their talent for music, poetry and dramtic presentations.
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The Spark!
Being as passionate and commited to music as I am, especially the are of voice, I have some real icons in
the arena of singing. One of those icons is the legendary Barbra Streisand. Her vocal gift is only describable one way,
Extraordinary!. Well Ms.Streisand had retired from the performace stage for years, when one day she realized that
some world issues of great importance to her needed attention. she decided that even with all she was doing, there was more
she could do. She decided to give the gift of her voice to bring attention to those problems. Well she came out of performance
retirement and gave a benefit concert at her estate at $5,000.00 a seat. It sold out in 3 days and her goal of bringing focus
to her concerns was a success. She called the event "One Voice" I never forgot it and although I did not
attend the concert, I bought the DVD of the concert to help support it. I realized the power of One voice.
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 The Success
Since the inception of One Child,One Voice, we have seen wonderful success. We have sponsored 26 students
to date. Fourteen (14) of the original 26 are still with us, with personal sponsors commiting each year. Eight of the
student's grade point averages went up and behavioral problems went down, way down.Our instruction and mentorship has ment
much to the childen and thier families.
We have seen wonderful success, but for it to remain and increase, we need you help.
A half hour lesson once a week for a complete 12 week semester is $300.00 per child. A one year sponsorship
for a child is $1,100.00. This includes instruction, books, computer training and recitals. As a sponsor, you would recieve
the name and a photo of the child you sponsor. You also recieve a end of semster progress report and two tickets to their
recital, or a DVD copy for you enjoyment. If you can't sponsor the entire amount, you donations of any size will be a welcome gift
in helping a child to recognize they have a voice and that it is a powerful tool for life. If you believe in the power
of One Child, One Voice, please join our sponsorship team, today.
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You can become a sponsor right now. Just
fill out the form below, then go to our PVS payment Link at the bottom of the page. Thank you in advance!!!
Powell Vocal Studio / 8738 South Halsted St / Chicago, IL 60620
Mailing Office / 430 East 162nd St Suite 109 /South Holland, IL 60473
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