OAKHURST — For the past quarter-century local nonprofit Vision Academy of the Arts has awarded over $160,000 to more than 130 local high school seniors graduating in Eastern Madera County, as part of the nonprofit’s dedication to enrichment in education through the arts.
Now, Vision Academy for the Arts invites to the community to come out in support of their annual showcase of talent, A Grand Night For The Arts. The event takes place on Saturday, Mar. 30 in the multipurpose room at Oakhurst Elementary School from 6 – 9 p.m. The cost is $20.
The evening of great food, friends, and fundraising will include performances by scholarship applicants from the graduating class of 2019.
Click here to support Vision Academy fundraiser on GoFundMe.
Tickets may be purchased in advance by any student who has applied or will be applying for an award, and also at the door.
Among the attractions, in addition to live entertainment: a live and silent auction, and the infamous balloon sales with each $10 envelope held aloft containing at least a ten dollar value in gift cards. Come hungry, says organizers. North Fork resident Nancy Kipp will be on site, generously serving Indian Tacos, included in the cost to enter the event.
Last year’s recipients of Vision Academy community awards scholarships were Kyra Cole, Kelsey Montalto, Emily Anderson, Alexia Dahlin, Dana Vind, Olivia Mattos, and Rachel Mattos.
Jackie Byers of Vision Academy of the Arts – photo by Kellie Flanagan
Vision Academy of the Arts was formed in 1994 with four workshops and has grown to include concerts, summer camp, annual daffodil planting, and more. They provide scholarships for students in pursuit of arts, teach classes for children and adults, perform concerts and musical events, and volunteer for community events. With accomplished professionals instructors, students range from novice to seasoned.
Vision Academy is made up entirely of community volunteers. Jackie Byers, Sheila Adams, Kent Byers, and a dedicated Board of Directors comprise the leadership of Vision Academy. They also rely on the talents of community members who teach classes and help run the summer camp, along with high school students who mentor the younger campers. Sierra Chamber Singers choir and its offshoot, Sierra Chamber Maids, both operate under the umbrella of Vision Academy of the Arts.
“Each year, my mom and her friends raise $10,000 for scholarships in the arts,” says board member and Jackie’s son Kent Byers.
“At 77, she is still helping children realize their dream of continuing in the performing arts. As her group of go-getters gets on in age, it’s harder for them to put together entire events to raise money toward scholarships. [Follow this link to donate] — every dollar goes to scholarships.”
The Vision Academy message is, “Your star shining softly on its own, but brightly when shared with others.”
Come support the people who support our kids and schools.
