Every year at Clarion Center for the Arts we choose a mission to support through various means in our classes and at our performances. This year's mission is a Summer Read & Feed program through the Clarion Free Library to meet the needs of kids living in poverty here in Clarion.
Studies show that 82% of students eligible for free or reduced lunches cannot read with proficiency. In Clarion County, 45% of students qualify for free or reduced lunches. While programs exist to serve these kids meals over the summer, studies suggest that only 15% of them will receive the help they need due to a lack of transportation and other logistical issues. Not eating and not reading over the summer sets children back significantly year-to-year. It is our hope that the money we raise and the volunteers we empower will be a small step toward helping kids in Clarion County reach their full potential and break free from the bonds of poverty.
Here are some ways that we are raising money for this mission:
1. Donation Pledges for our annual Dance Competition
Our dance students attend one dance competition in Cleveland, OH, through the Ohio Dance Masters each year. To give these kids something more meaningful to dance for than just an award, we ask their friends and families to pledge a donation based on the awards they receive.
If you would like to be a part of this year's pledge fundraiser, you can pledge a donation online at the link below.
2. Sparky Bucks
Sparky is our mascot and students can earn "Sparky Bucks" in class for practicing, working hard and being a good friend. Students then have the option of spending their Sparky Bucks in our Sparky Store OR donating them toward our mission! If students collectively donate 1,000 Sparky Bucks, CCA will personally finance one Read & Feed day through the Library!
3. Recital Fundraiser
When parents and guests purchase tickets for our 2020 Spring Dance Recital, they'll have the opportunity to make a donation to the Read & Feed program. They can also drop off a donation at the show!
Follow this mission on Facebook by joining our event! We'll post about our progress and let you know more ways that you can get involved.
We're looking forward to seeing the impact this fundraiser makes for our community!