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The grant matches Bridgeport Board of Education dollars that support the program.CYP uses a youth leadership model where middle and high school students are given stipends and job descriptions for leading in creative writing, acting, singing, dancing, film and directing original productions that are youth-voice driven.
“This grant supports youth stipends and the work they do”, said Alexis Bivens, FCCF program director. “CYP has proven this model not only works,but is extremely successful after creating three original productions this year, maintaining an 89% average attendance level and an 89% average that youth are gaining confidence.”
Youth Leaders take their positions very seriously and have three levels of positions and pay scales. “Getting to be a youth leader is not easy,” said Leandra Brooks, a former student and now graduate and staff person of CYP and student of Housatonic Community College. “You have to be committed and show excellent leadership skills in classes.”
CYP’s program uses the arts to support positive social skills, confidence, and encourages growth and success in school for later in life. Funders, Bridgeport Board of Education, Parents, participants, youth leaders, the staff and Executive Director, Donna Sue DeGuzman, are passionate about this program and the dramatic positive effect it is having on these children’s lives.
“This program has saved my life. I really don’t know where I would be with out it--probably dead,” said Youth Leader Tysonlee Newman, 16, who attends Bassick High School. He finished his first year as a youth leader and won a CYP Oscar statue as Best Comedian by his peers. His peers just voted Jordan Hines, a Jr. Youth Leader, in after a passionate speech about how the money earned will help his brother and sisters back home eat.
Creative Youth Productions Inc. is a non-profit performing arts company serving Bridgeport youth. CYP’s mission is to develop youth leaders through the performing arts. CYP is committed to using the youth’s voice organizationally, programmatically, and creatively. CYP’s goal is for students to acquire leadership, confidence, positive attitudes, and professionalism through theater, dance, singing and film. Creating original productions in a safe environment, youth leaders make a dramatic impact on themselves, their peers, family and neighbors that changes lives forever.
Creative Youth Productions, Inc. provides programs year long, including their July 7-August 1 summer program at James J. Curiale School. For more information visit their website www.cypkids.org or email donnasuecyp@gmail.com.
The Fairfield County Community Foundation promotes the growth of community and regional philanthropy to improve the quality of life throughout Fairfield County. Individuals, families, corporations and organizations can establish charitable funds or contribute to existing funds. The Foundation also provides philanthropic advisory services, and develops and leads initiatives to tackle critical community issues. It is in compliance with the Council on Foundations’ national standards for community foundations. The Foundation has awarded more than $168 million in grants to nonprofits in Fairfield County and beyond. For more information, visit www.fccfoundation.org.
Contact Info:
Name: Donna Sue DeGuzman-Executive Director
Email: Send Email
Organization: Creative Youth Productions
Address: 53 Davis Ave 1st floor, Bridgeport, CT 06605
Phone: 203-610-4323
Website: http://creativeyouthproductions.org
Release ID: 51673
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