Joy through Gratitude

The annual Joy Through Music event last night was a collection of brilliant stars whose shared light created an exponential brightness for our evening of family togetherness. Over 70 people, representing children, parents, grandparents, neighbors, Big Friends, AIA Board members, and co-workers from four different AIA programs, gathered in celebration of the season of love and gratitude. Reflecting our color scheme of silver and gold, old and new friends held time to share the joy of the season of giving. There was amazing talent on display. One of the most moving spectacles was the courage of young performers modeling risk to youth and adults.

Without neglecting anyone's magnificent contributions, many, many thanks to Christa Brandt and Kris Palmer for their leadership and support of this event, and for our set-up and clean-up crews, including:
Becca Alturk
Joe & Kimberly Anakata
Ihssan Abukhalaf
Andrew Fletcher
Zury Garcia
Keith Lewis
Dee McWilliams (sound)
Erin Nunn
Leandre Powell
Camille Reynolds
Heather Zunguze

And many thanks to Issa Brandt for hosting! His special presentation shared with Sharisse Huie, our parent AIA Board Rep, warmed the hearts of our dedicated teachers. Much appreciation to all the families for expressing their gratitude at this time to Artensia Young, Cierra Price, Dan Burr, Maria Sanchez and Sky Young.

DECEMBER GIFTS

• $90.00 was raised through cash donations toward the Home Sweet Home Music Garden.


• 100% of HSH staff have pledged support to the Alternatives in Action Annual Fund - joined by generous parent donations we are well on our way to achieving the Home Sweet Home goal of $1500. We hope to exceed this monetary goal AND achieve 100% family participation!


• Bongos and drums have been gifted to our preschool.


• An alumni gift of $1200 was designated to Home Sweet Home scholarships.


• Significant canned foods have been collected for the Food Drive.


• The unique and thoughtful gift of dry-cleaned dress-shirts, blazers and ties have supported many of our BASE seniors as they apply for internships this month.