The strength and vibrancy of a community is often a reflection of its faith, educational, civic and cultural organizations; it requires a rich mixture of community supports and opportunities for citizens to thrive. While much of the Foundation’s activity is focused on education and career pathways, we also have an important role to play in supporting and strengthening the civic fabric of this amazingly generous community.

Kids Fun and Drama (KFAD) is a non-profit theatre group that offers professionally led performing arts programming for Stateline Area youth 7–18 years of age. The organization’s mission is to promote theatre, dance and music through teaching, training and performance; building the self-esteem, poise and knowledge of youth participants.

KFAD puts on two musicals each year. Youth learn acting, singing and dance skills as well as how to work as a team. Outreach activities, fundraisers and community events like Christmas caroling are offered along with an annual Summer Camp. Future goals include the development of a choral program to increase music education, the first Teen production (coming in 2024) and expanded classes and camps.

While there is a cost to participate in KFAD activities, the organization offers a discount to families who pledge to volunteer during the show season as well as scholarships that ensure any interested youth can participate, regardless of ability to pay. Volunteerism has been a hallmark of KFAD activities since its initial founding in 1989. Parent/family volunteers assist with costumes, set decoration, and program alumni come back to support teaching classes or to assist with productions.

Arts education and enrichment opportunities have been shown to positively impact youth in any number of areas: improving literacy, bolstering academic achievement, developing social-emotional and interpersonal skills and helping youth to feel more connected to the larger community. KFAD’s steady growth in program participation and production audiences demonstrates local youth are looking for these opportunities and there is community-level desire to support youth in these experiences.

The Foundation’s support of KFAD enables us to help strengthen and sustain an organization that creates a positive learning and enrichment experience for local youth and to help strengthen the fabric of our community.