February 21st, 2020 - THEY are Featured in Rambler Newspapers .com - Comedy with a Cause Helps Raise Funds for Charity by Katie Combest
THEY Improv’s Comedy with a Cause program hosted a benefit for charity All Things Made New! (ATMN) at MainStage222 on Sunday, Feb. 16.
“We are happy to be good citizens and to help ATMN,” Clayton Cunningham, board president of Mainstage Irving-Las Colinas, said. “By having groups such as THEY Improv perform for such important causes, we are helping Irving, its people, and its downtown to thrive.”
Michelle Flores founded ATMN in 2012 to help kids have a safe space to share their concerns, to seek reassurances and inspiration, and to help with life skills and lessons.
“We believe in the kids and teach them to believe in themselves,” Flores said.
More Than Gold is an ATMN program designed for middle and high school girls. The program provides a safe space for the girls to connect with others, learn about leadership, and fosters good decision-making skills.
“The best part of mentoring young girls is seeing their transformation and growth,” mentor Andy Gonzalez said.
Iron Roots, another ATMN program, offers a supportive and structured environment for elementary and middle school boys.
“This is a space where kids can unload without judgment,” Kayla Parker, ATMN’s outreach coordinator, said. “We aim to anchor kids and to give them hope.”
“It’s important to listen, to guide, and to give assurances to help kids get through situations and to help them to learn to navigate bad situations when they arise again,” Irma Vega Zadeh said.
Nicole Fancher enjoyed the show.
“I am happy to be at this event and to support the community, and my friend who is acting in the Improv tonight,” Fancher said.
Irving resident Rikki Bett is proud that MainStage222 has this program.
“Irving has a spirit of inclusivity, and I am attending this event to support the community,” Bett said. “I am also happy to see an arts event in south Irving. You don’t have to go to Las Colinas to be around the arts.”
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