History of Youth for the Arts

Under the umbrella of the Paris Henry County Arts Council the Youth for the Arts Program was started in 2006 by Travis McLeese. The group was developed to provide performance opportunities and support Henry County's Youth and their artistic endeavors. Starting with a group of five members, including Arts Council's Executive Director Mary Lodge, the board developed their first fundraiser, Krider Idol.

"I wanted to show off the talent of the kids here in our community," commented McLeese. "With the help of a few fellow Madrigals we developed the concept of Krider Idol. The event would provide a performance opportunity and a way for us to raise money." The proceeds from the event were donated to the Henry County High School Madrigals. Realizing there was a larger need that anticipated, the group began to plan for the future.

In 2007 the Veterans Day Celebration and the All District Band Festival were created. As the group began to grow their calendar of events, it was time to expand the board of Directors to seven teachers and four students.

In 2008 the group developed the Youth for the Arts Grant Initiative Program. This grant would allow for any student to apply for private lessons, funds to purchase instruments, etc. Within two years the group would award $5,861.46.

"We were amazed with the success of the grant program. We were providing opportunities and support to kids who really needed it," added McLeese.

The growth didn't stop there. In 2011 the group announced the development of the Youth for the Arts Enrichment Fund. The Enrichment Fund would take the place of the Grant Initiative Program, but allow for teachers, organizations, and school groups to apply for funding.

As the group continued its growth they developed a relationship with the Bethel University Renaissance Program. Bethel loved the mission of the group and vowed to do anything to help support the program. In the Spring of 2011, The Renaissance Choir Fundraiser was developed and another major fundraiser was added to the calendar of events. The event featured the Renaissance Choir and the Veazey Vocal program from Paris Elementary.

With the help of Krider Idol, The Paris Lakeway Kiwanis, The Renaissance Choir Fundraiser, and numerous contributions the Youth for the Arts Program has awarded $15,205.61. For more information about Youth for the Arts contact our office at (731) 642-3955.

Youth for the Arts Board of Directors

Teachers

Minette Veazey, Chair
Deborah Arnold
Brendell Cowan
Debbie Elliott
Dianne Lowery
Lucy Presson
Katherine Thompson

Students

Maggie Hudson
Patrick McEntire
Emily Maggard
Megan O'Conner