Our Mission
The mission of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation Inc., a 501 (c)(3) organization is to provide opportunities for children to creatively express themselves by taking lessons in the various disciplines of the performing arts.
Our Goal
Our goal is to give children the opportunity to find their own voice, increase their self-esteem, give them a sense of belonging, and provide them with a positive reinforcement.
AOK Performance Group
This audition only ‘kids helping kids’ group is a collection of youth volunteers ages 7-22 who showcase their performing arts talents in service of the foundation’s mission. Members of the group are invited to attend and perform at local non-profit and for-profit events throughout the year. In doing so, these performers raise awareness for the foundation’s mission and are provided with a broad variety of public performance opportunities. The foundation provides an opportunity for children to take part in ongoing community service initiatives while doing something they love and enjoy.
Foundation Information
The foundation provides scholarships in vocal instruction, dance, acting, and instrumental music to children ages 7-18. We build partnerships with local schools, as well as other community organizations, to identify students who meet our financial needs requirements.
Students interested in applying for a scholarship will complete a simple application. Our Advisory Committee will review all submissions for eligibility. The Advisory Committee is comprised of performing arts educators, social workers, business owners, theatre enthusiasts, as well as other professionals within the local community that have a love for the arts. Once a student is accepted into the program the foundation will then pair the scholarship recipient with a participating local performing arts studio. Any student who receives a scholarship will receive weekly or biweekly lessons in the discipline of their choice. Additionally, if a student is in need of any supplies in order to be successful in their class (dance shoes or instruments), the foundation will make every effort to provide these items to the student when funding is available. All the children we paired with local studios will participate in the foundation’s end of the year showcase. This is when all those who made it possible, our generous donors and sponsors, will have the chance to watch our scholarship recipients share what they have learned.
Performing arts education contributes to the proactive development of an individual on many different levels. It provides children with the opportunity to find their own voice, increases self-esteem, gives them a sense of belonging, and provides an outlet for them to openly express themselves.
With your help, the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation Inc. will be able to create an environment for students to develop their interpersonal skills, confidence, imagination, reach their creative potential and share their gifts. For more information please email jodi@applaudourkids.org or log onto www.applaudourkids.org.
The Foundation relies on the generous support from community grants, sponsors, and individual donors. Only with your continued support can we provide a child with the opportunity to explore the performing arts.
Thank you for giving a child the opportunity to shine!
The Grinwald Family
