As the bustle of the holidays and the promise of the new year approach, we’re taking a moment to reflect on our blessings, notice them, acknowledge them and give thanks.

We acknowledge and are incredibly grateful for all of you—our supporters—and the vital role you play in sustaining the performing arts and supporting programs for our children and youth in Flint and throughout Genesee County.

One program that stands out is the Youth Usher Corps, which not only provides paid employment for high school students in Flint and Genesee County but also offers mentorship and life skills training. The dedication of our staff helps create a sense of family and belonging for these teenagers. The Youth Usher Corps also introduces students to the performing arts—many of whom have no prior exposure.

Michelle Duncan, Senior Manager of Audience Services, emphasizes this impact: “These kids learn that there are people in the world you can trust. We make sure they have what they need to succeed—whether it’s bus passes, a warm meal, proper uniforms, shoes that fit, financial literacy education, or simply a group of people who believe in them.”

Your generous gift of $100, $250, or $500 ensures that we can continue to provide transformative arts experiences and empower students to achieve the bright futures they deserve.

Your support helps us extend our reach to young people even further with programs like Music and Dance for Early Learners (MDEL), which bring the arts to our youngest community members. In partnership with Head Start and Great Start Readiness Programs, MDEL offers creative sessions that help young children reach developmental milestones through music and movement, right in their own classrooms. By sending instructors into these spaces, we remove barriers, ensuring every child can experience the transformative power of the arts.

Dare Stogner, Program Director at the Flint School of Performing Arts, reflects on the impact of early arts exposure: “Starting at a young age in a program just like MDEL, I developed an understanding, appreciation, and love for the performing arts. It built a foundation that has lasted my entire life.”

Dare’s story underscores this critical support. It’s not just about instruction; it’s about inspiring lifelong connections to the arts and providing those early arts exposures that create lasting change, ensuring more children can build their own foundations in the arts.

Your gift helps us nurture that foundation through two long-standing FIM programs. Schooltime Performances busses students to FIM venues like Elgood Theatre and Whiting Auditorium, where they experience the magic of live performances – instilling in that next generation a love for the arts. When transporting students isn’t possible, we bring the arts to them through the Troubadours, a traveling troupe of storytellers, musicians, and dancers. For over 30 years, the Troubadours have delivered dynamic performances, sparking imaginations and deepening understanding of the performing arts.

Aiesha Lewis, Community Programs Coordinator and a member of the Troubadours, shares her passion: “Getting these kids to a live performance and watching them relate to the diverse cultures, languages, and worldviews shared on stage is emotional for me. We’re eliminating barriers and opening their eyes to experiences they may never have had.”

Your gift today will directly support these meaningful programs and make an investment in the future of our children and youth, and our community.

We are thankful for you and grateful for your generous support. Together, we can continue to foster a love for the arts and transform lives in Flint.

Sincerely,

Rodney Lontine, President & CEO

P.S. Your support makes these efforts possible. Make a gift before December 31 to help us continue delivering this free programming, ensuring that FIM remains a welcoming space for all performing arts enthusiasts in the New Year.