I started volunteering with Words, Beats & Life a few years ago; around the same time I started DJing. I had been looking for a place to mentor adolescent boys and girls, but really wanted to mentor young males of color. Through my volunteer experience as a college material coach and assistant DJ instructor, I found that this organization captures the essence of guiding the youth and giving them a voice in an environment where it can be nurtured and matured. I am a huge fan of Words Beats and Life because of what the organizations represents: transforming lives and community through Hip Hop. From the programming (with world renowned artists) to the community events, Words Beats & Life truly embodies that statement.
Being on the Board of Directors has also allowed me to view the organization in a different perspective. I have been able to understand the importance of fundraising, spreading the word about our community involvement, and our purpose for existing. Being a part of the Words, Beats & Life family even showed me how to better define my own purpose in life. I have been fortunate in the fact that this organization meets my passion with music, mentoring and people.
Awesome Awesome organization!!.....unbiased opinion :-)
Review from Guidestar
Words Beats & Life is one of the most exciting, innovative arts organizations in DC. They have the best hip hop public programs in the city: the bboy jams regularly attract 500-700 youth from the metro region; the chess tournament blends history, science and music in way that appeals to young and old; their art students' murals grace every quadrant of the city. They not only employ talented hip hop artists and educators but through their conferences, they provide a platform for like-minded national and international organizations to meet, build and expand.