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We are glad both that the Community Alliance for Progressive Positive Action, or CAPPA, has returned and that the Lycoming County Commissioners have allocated $25,000 to the organization for programs.
As the Sun-Gazette reported in the July 29-30 weekend edition, CAPPA provides kids with after school care, homework help, dinner and opportunities to explore the performing arts. Its after school homework program is offered to kids grades K-6. The performing arts program is offered to students K-12. The performing arts program allows children to learn vocal and instrumental music as well as dance. Each year, CAPPA holds a showcase at the Community Arts Center where the youth perform what they have been working on.
As part of the performing arts program, boys in fourth, fifth and sixth grades have the opportunity to participate in Young Gentlemen, where they are given hands-on experience and opportunities in performing arts as well as learning respect and consequences of behavior.
"This is an organization that builds self esteem in our youth. Once a child has self esteem, they feel better about their selves." Carolyn Perry, executive assistant for CAPPA, told the Sun-Gazette.
"Kids get involved in things because they see other people doing it and because they have nothing else to do and because they are bored. You gotta keep them busy and engaged and set them on the path for their future," Nicole McKibben, CAPPA's treasurer, said.
"When you do something, you do it well," Commissioner Tony Mussare told CAPPA's leaders at the commissioners' meeting where the funding was approved, according to an article in the Aug. 12-13 edition of the Sun-Gazette. ""You will always have my support."
We agree with Perry and McKibben -- the value of self-esteem in young people is pivotal in ensuring they have the right tools to resist negative influences and peer pressure and our communities should prioritize helping young people stay on the right path for a bright future.
And we hope everyone in our communities can agree with Mussare, and offer long-lasting support to a successful organization as it renews our communities' commitment to programs that make a difference in the lives of children.