Category Archives: youth

Fleur de Lys Villa supports the Arc of Natrona County

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The Arc of Natrona County came into existence in 1964 as an informal parent organization for children with disabilities.  Formally incorporated in 1977, the mission remains; 
“The Arc is committed to securing for all people with cognitive, intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work and play. The Arc is further committed to reducing the incidence and limiting the consequence of developmental disabilities through education, research, advocacy and the support of families, friends and community.”
For as long as I can remember my mom has been dedicated to several charity organizations, one of those big hearts that never tires of giving time, attention, and resources to those in need.  She took special interest in the Arc, serving on the board and as an officer, over the course of many years.  For this much needed and respected organization, and in thanks to her, we donated a one week stay at Fleur de Lys Villa for the Arc’s charity auction hosted early this year.
The winning bid went to Mark and Lesley Vigneri, who brought six friends for a week of rest and relation. Mark, who serves on the board and just so happens to be an old friend from school, and Lesley, who serves as the Arc’s secretary, enjoyed a week of picture perfect weather; days spent at the beach, adventures on the water, and nights out enjoying several of Provo’s best restaurants.  

 We all got together for dinner their final night at the legendary Blue Hills establishment, Da Conch Shack.  Fabulous local faire, uppity island music, and toes in the sand as you do the conga line!  We had a great time getting caught up and hearing about their week.  These philanthropists deserved an incredible vacation and we were so thrilled to hear they got one that exceeded their expectations!
To learn more about the Arc, please see the many programs they offer here.  To learn more about the wonderful people that the Arc assists, please see this amazing youtube video below about Carly and her breakthrough in autism;

 

Black History Month at the ECGYC

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The ECGYC has had a busy last four weeks celebrating  black-history-month.  In my arts and crafts class last Thursday we created these helpful hand reminders featuring inspirational messages meant to keep this months celebration in mind all year long.
The culmination of all the activities ended in a performance last Saturday evening at the ECGYC.  The opening national anthem was sung by Bernice Brown, followed by a beautiful Whitney Houston tribute, “The Greatest Love Of All,” she delivered beautifully.
Three dancers from the Bowen Dance Academy performed a lovely piece that combined African, modern, and classic styles.

Following were the youth center dancers performing a high energy piece with Caribbean flair.

Guy Talk is a great program that started at the center last fall.  These two gentleman performed two different rap/poetry/written word pieces, one written free style just before show time!

Qwan Ki Do instructor and ECGYC volunteer Paul Ciurar then did a demonstration of the mixed martial art with his students, showing self defense tactics to the audience. 

The Drama Club then took the stage for a robust spoken word performance.
Drama Club leader/volunteer Alexis cheered her girls on from the sidelines then stepped up for her own incredible solo.  I have known Alexis for years and had no idea she was such a gifted writer and performer.  Her speech was insightful, humorous, honest, and full of soul.  Bravo Alexis!!!

The ECGYC dancers then took center stage to perform their very own choreographed Waka-Waka dance.

 The grand finale was executed by the fashion club, a popular program initiated by local fashion designer Kazz Forbes.
One of the activities for the students was to take a plain white t-shirt and re-envision it, make their own creative statement with something so seemingly simple.

Each of the girls got to strut their stuff in their design, as you can see, each one having unique detail.

Big thanks to all the kids who participated, all the generous volunteers who donate their time to TCI youth, and most of all for directors Charrish and Roxann for their tireless dedication and energy.

National Youth Day

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Last year I was fortunate enough to be a judge at the Youth Day celebration for the banner and talent competitions held at the Gustavus Lightbourne Center downtown.  There was so much bright, young talent in the room it was a very difficult duty to choose the winners.   Every banner was thoughtful, creative, and had an amazing message to share.  Every act on the floor was entertaining and fun to watch. I was very honored to have been asked for such an important role; my best wishes to this years particpants and best of luck to the judges in their challenging decision making!
  Please visit here if you would like to learn how you can help the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands build a better tomorrow.