As a professional dancer I first met Jane, Hope Stone's CEO, on a master class while attending Houston Community College. Since then I became a regular client, taking modern classes from her and getting to know more about the organization. One thing led to another and I found myself teaching at her children's program and as part of her staff at the Hope Stone Kids program, a program designed to make arts education as a priority in kids of all ages lives. 7 years later and I can proudly say that I am a part of Hope Stone's vision to educate our young citizens to problem solve, to have compassion, to learn to socialize, to accept one another, to listen, to trust, to respect and be respected and to share. All that through music, dance, theater, writing, photography, art. As a professional artist and a teacher, I hope to see many more programs like this in schools and community centers all over the country.

It is impossible not to believe in arts education when you are involved with Hope Stone. We see everyday how dance, music and theater make a difference in a child's life. This is a great organization that educates and empowers children and teenagers through art. The whole staff is very commited to every child and very competent and entusiastic! In order to reach more children with this program funding is extremely important and necessary.