Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture
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I have been participating in Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture for about a year and it is the most effective and creative cultural organization that I could imagine. The Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture organization is dedicated to bridging gaps between cultures and allowing anyone, regardless of age, gender, religious or cultural backgrounds to enjoy Arab culture whether it be through music, art, literature, science, history, etc. etc. Not so many groups are able to encompass such a broad range of participants. Their mission is a rare one and definitely very significant in this community. With this organization, I have been able to connect with my Middle Eastern heritage, something I rarely get the chance to do here. I have been able to pursue my passion of Arabic music as well with some of the best musicians I have ever worked with, while really feeling included in the Al-Bustan community. The welcoming group is so important, and they succeed in making everyone feel included regardless of religious, political or cultural affiliations, something rare in their pursuit. Their mission is one of raising awareness of culture, the arts and the sciences: a very progressive mission. The organization makes Arab culture accessible and interesting to young children, adults, students and just about anyone who has the curiosity. Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture has been doing wonderful work and continues to be one of the leading organizations in exposing Arab culture in Philadelphia and I believe, the country.
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I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
-Playing in musical concerts -Helping with the summer camp -Getting the opportunity to meet many great musicians, educators, artists, etc. through this group -Feeling included in a supportive group
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What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
-The camaraderie -Growing as a musician -Getting to enjoy the Middle Eastern culture and my heritage -Everyone's interest and dedication to the group -Celebrating a culture through its arts, literature, breakthroughs and great minds
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
-Highly organized, intelligent, creative, well-spoken, open-minded, hard working, kind, supportive, interesting and genuine
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
-Help increase awareness of Arab culture through arts, literature, music...; using its great staff, teachers, volunteers; creating programs for children/teenagers; organizing events locally and on a broader level; engaging people of all ages/background...
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
My favorite part is definitely working with the other musicians. Just a great environment to put yourself in. Just bustles of fun.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
The performances.
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What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
The performances.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Great people honest and fun.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Alter the worlds viewpoint!
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I've participated in Al-Bustan's first Arabic Music Ensemble performance and had a great time! Not only was I exposed to some really great artists, I have learned to appreciate the great old songs that my parents used to listen to and still do. I enjoyed our practices and the involvement Al-Bustan has with other Arab groups in Philadelphia and wish them the best of luck with their Simon Shaheen-led Music Ensemble this semester!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
the great attendance we had at the Arab Music Ensemble! Bodek Lounge was PACKED.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
try to subsidize more of the events .. ie tuition for programs (if possible)
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What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
how they try to engage the local community with Arabic culture/heritage.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
friendly, helpful, interactive, and passionate
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
change the world.. they can break down more stereotypes about arabs and what we stand for
Ways to make it better...
the volunteers got a dvd of their performance ;)
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
perhaps funding
One thing I'd also say is that...
great work with local communities!
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
This is an incredible organization. Having volunteered in the Arabic summer camp, attending the arts and culture events they put on, and co-organized a highly successful Arabic music concert with them, I can honestly say that this organization creates wonderful and unique opportunities to expose people to Arabic culture and the arts in general. This organization works to expand the horizons of the people it reaches in ways that other organizations do not do. I remember the enormous praise the concert I co-organized received by those who attended it, not only shortly after the event by a year later! Given the cultural tensions in the world today, this organization is able to achieve marvels by setting aside politics and differences and bringing people together through commonly valued means of human expression, particularly art.
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What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
the joy and smiles it produces in those who participate in its activities and the knowledge and message of tolerance that it effectively imparts.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
share the wonderful work it does to regions outside of Philadelphia.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every six months
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
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