Outreach

What a busy week! On top of my regular work, I was asked to go on an outreach trip yesterday. J came with me, and we went about two hours away from the capital to a small town of around 2,000 people called Lukšiai. A group called the Young Americans were there to lead about 500 youth and children in a music/dance workshop. We were there for the opening ceremony - it was a blast! I'm still no fan of public speaking, but my remarks were a small part of the event. It really is amazing to watch this group of talented young people with unbelievably high energy working with and teaching so many children. In just 10 hours of rehearsal, all these children will learn an intense hour-long performance of everything from choral music to hip hop, jazz, and modern dance. But for us, even in just the two hours we spent with them, the music and dance lessons almost seemed secondary. I think we were more inspired by the cooperation and rapport the teachers developed so quickly with their students. The Young Americans are so encouraging - their energy is contagious. In just a few hours you could see a difference in the participants; their enthusiasm and confidence were growing. The workshop is spread over three days, so that in addition to rehearsal, there is time for team-building and other creative outlets. The Young Americans have tours in the US and different parts of the world - I think they are a really impressive non-profit organization. You should check them out!