Culture Incorporated

After school could mean a walk to an empty house followed by a few hours of television or video games for 50 kids in Des Moines' Highland Park neighborhood. Culture Incorporated changed that this year by opening their doors on 6th Avenue across from the famous "Chuck's" restaraunt. The group provides arts activities at no cost for kids in the neighborhood. Not only is there space available for conversation and homework, there is a mini recording studio, a dance studio and a visual arts studio.
Tragedy struck last fall, when shortly after opening their doors a fire destroyed most of the space. The resilient founders, Rachel and Yvette, reopened in December and once again began providing an oasis of culture in otherwise empty afternoons.
Operating costs are fairly low at Culture Incorporated, but corporate and community support is desperately needed if the program is to survive. Barnes & Noble will host a fundraiser on April 25th to help this worthy organization. Can't wait to see what the creative kids at Culture Incorporated will do to help raise awareness of their favorite afterschool destination.

Visiting The Hospital

I was honored to be invited to read stories at the Blank Children's Hospital on Friday morning. The kids staying there were remarkably sweet, the staff at Blank is a dedicated and compassionate group. How fortunate to be reminded that our lives are essentially unlived if they are not centered around service. As much fun as we are able to find in this world it's necessary and good to bring fun where it's desperately needed.