Students from South Phoenix to
enjoy an unforgettable suite experience at the WNBA All-Star
Weekend.
PHOENIX, July 19,
2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The HeroZona
Foundation and the American Legion Travis L. Williams Post 65, in
partnership with Arizona Public Service (APS), will host its fifth
Play It Forward program on Saturday, July
20. This exciting program will provide 18 Arizona high school and college students from
South Phoenix with an
unforgettable suite experience at the WNBA All-Star Weekend. This
initiative is designed to engage the community through the arts and
expose students from underserved communities to various facets of
the performing arts.
"Through the Play It Forward program, we
aim to inspire a lifelong appreciation for the arts, equipping our
youth with the creativity and confidence needed to thrive in all
aspects of their lives," said Alan "AP" Powell, U.S. Army Desert
Storm Veteran and HeroZona Foundation co-founder.
"The Play it Forward program provides children of veteran
families with opportunities to attend enriching events they might
not have the means to experience otherwise," said Commander of
American Legion Post 65, Jarvis
Reddick.
The Play It Forward program underscores the importance of
community involvement in arts education. The initiative aims to
foster a lasting connection between students and the performing
arts. Students taking part in the weekend's festivities will have
the opportunity to engage with, feel motivated by and learn from
community leaders, stakeholders and athletes.
"The arts are a vital component of education," said Rhoshawndra
L. Carnes, Herozona Foundation board member. "Whether it's dance,
music, theater, or visual arts, these disciplines offer youth a
distinctive way to express themselves. Play It Forward allows
various organizations to provide youth with the opportunity to see
how the arts enrich our lives with joyfulness in various ways."
Past programs have included Two Trains Running, a Black History
Month engagement to educate students about those who paved the way
for civil rights. Another group of students were invited to the
Phoenix Symphony to enjoy the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
concert production. The most recent Play It Forward event featured
a Pinkfong Baby Shark mini show and a family resource fair designed
to help prepare students for preschool and kindergarten.
"Introducing students to the arts at a young age is essential
for fostering creativity and personal growth," said Alan "AP"
Powell, U.S. Army Desert Storm Veteran, HeroZona Foundation
co-founder, and Travis L. Williams American Legion Post 65 member.
"Exposure to the arts enhances critical thinking skills, boosts
academic performance, and nurtures a well-rounded education.
Through the Play It Forward program, we aim to inspire a lifelong
appreciation for the arts, equipping our youth with the creativity
and confidence needed to thrive in all aspects of their lives."
Studies show that students involved in the arts are four times
more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and three
times more likely to maintain steady attendance. Students who have
arts-rich experiences also become more active, engaged citizens,
voting, volunteering and participating in community at a higher
rate than their peers.
"Play It Forward is an important partner with Sun Valley
Academy, empowering our scholars to explore the inspirational arts
and sports experiences within the Phoenix metroplex," said Dr. Tanae Morrison, CEO and founder of Sun Valley
Academy. "Our scholars are able to deepen their own creativity and
self-expression, helping them become exceptional learners and
leaders in our classrooms and community."
"Engaging students in the arts is a powerful tool for their
enrichment," said Jeffrey B.
Guldner, president of Arizona Public Service. "The arts
broaden perspectives, enhance emotional intelligence, and provide a
creative outlet for self-expression. We are committed to offering
our youth enriching experiences that cultivate a deeper
understanding and appreciation of the arts, ultimately preparing
them for a brighter future."
To learn more about Play It Forward and how to become a valued
community partner, please visit
herozona.org/programs/playitforward/.
About HeroZona Foundation
The HeroZona Foundation is a non-profit organization that
empowers Heroes in the community through entrepreneurship,
employment, and education. The group works with veterans, first
responders and those that bring social good to future generations
and under-served communities. The foundation's mission is to create
opportunities for the brave men and women who serve their country,
and community, every day. For more information, please visit
HeroZona.org.
About Travis L. Williams American Legion Post 65
The Travis L. Williams American Legion Post 65 welcomes veterans
from all branches of our Armed Forces. The post enables its members
to continue serving God, Country and the Community. Their mission
is to support the community of the South
Phoenix area under their four pillars: veterans, defense,
youth and Americanism. One hundred percent of the funds raised
through their events are given back to the community to help give
scholarships to students, and aid and assistance to veterans in
need and their families. For more information, visit
twilliamspost65.org.
Media Contact
Jennifer Howard, Evolve PR &
Marketing, 1 4804381602, jhoward@evolveprandmarketing.com,
https://evolveprandmarketing.com/
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SOURCE HeroZona Foundation