Written by Denise Richard, Founder & Board Chair of Martin Richard Foundation
“Martin Richard Foundation believes that when young people are taught the values of sportsmanship, inclusion, kindness, and peace, they will lead the way as thinkers, upstanders and peacemakers in their communities.
Access to theater not only gives kids a joyful opportunity most have not experienced, it allows them to see themselves in other characters, stories, places and time. What a great way to broaden creative thinking and cultural understanding! This is what we look for as we invest in organizations that we hope will inspire the next generation to learn, grow, and lead and makes the Theatre for Kids program top on our list.
Rodman for Kids understands that the magic of a live performance can inspire a lifelong appreciation for the arts. These young people witness first-hand the teamwork, cooperation and collaboration that goes into a stage production, exposing them to the craft of storytelling and encouraging their own participation in drama, music, and dance.
Bill and I can attest that being in a theater surrounded by kids of all ages bubbling with excitement is one of the more gratifying experiences we have had as funders. The enchantment in the audience as the house lights go down rivals the magic happening on stage every time!
Congratulations to Rodman for Kids for their incredible milestone of enriching the lives of 100,000 kids – we can’t wait to celebrate 100,000 more.”