Founded in 2009, Kids in the Spotlight enlists professional filmmakers to train youth in foster care programs to create, write, cast and star in their own short films -- allowing them to express themselves through the art of filmmaking. The training culminates in an annual Academy Awards-like film festival competition of “Movies by Kids, for Kids”.
The teamwork, creativity and discipline required to complete a short film help the young participants develop a better self-image and a sense of accomplishment that engenders a greater belief in their ability to rise above their current social and economic conditions. KITS is completely free-of-charge to the kids, shoots up to 16 short films per year, and relies solely on sponsors, grants and tax-deductible donations for the operating and production budgets. |
Established in 2001, WriteGirl brings the skills and energy of professional women writers to teenage girls who do not otherwise have access to creative writing or mentoring programs.
WriteGirl, matches girls with women writers who mentor them in creative writing. Every year, they produce dozens of workshops, panel discussions and special events to help girls get creative, get through high school and get to college! In 2003, WriteGirl was a National Arts and Humanities Youth Program awardee. An initiative of the President’s Committee on the Arts & the Humanities (PCAH) it is the highest national honor awarded to exemplary after-school and out-of-school time programs, from across the country. |