July, 2016 (Aurora, Il) – Simply Destinee Youth Program is dancing for a cause. Simply Destinee encourages all youth, no matter economic status, to grow thru free dance classes and community performances which provides positive image and self-esteem.
In June 2016, the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley approved a grant of $5,300 to support Simply Destinee’s capital needs. This April 2016, Simply Destinee Youth Program relocated to 416 High Street, the Luxemburg building, in a space that was previously a boxing club. The location allows direct, easy access for the kids and families along with free parking, and flexible space to allow for additional programming as the youth center expands. With the relocation, there are several items needed to make the space safe, functional and inviting for classes ranging for 40-60 kids, plus their parents.
“We are so grateful for these grant dollars to help make our new home welcoming to all our students and families. This grant really helps. ” says Marty Luna, co-founder and director of the program.
This grant will be used to obtain 3 additional portable glassless dance mirrors to allow more children to view themselves performing, an outdoor bike rack, 4 outdoor security cameras to provide additional security for children coming to practice, and possibly upgrades to their sound system along with moveable partitions to provide private space for their new (used) computer lab.
About Simply Destinee:
Simply Destinee is a 501c3 non-profit youth program in memory of Destinee A. Oliva. Co-founders Marty Luna and his sister, Liza Oliva are dedicated to caring for Aurora’s most vulnerable youth, inspiring positive development in their lives, families, and communities, helping overcome challenges such as abuse, neglect and homelessness. Simply Destinee believes all kids deserve to feel safe, healthy and ready to learn.
Simply Destinee is committed to providing the community-based support for the at-risk youth which they need to succeed. Simply Destinee provides dance classes and performed in more than 25 community performances promoting anti-bullying and suicide prevention. To learn more, volunteer, and or donate, contact Simply Destinee call 331-643- 6001 or visit www.simplydestinee.com
About the Community Foundation:
The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a non-profit, tax-exempt, philanthropic organization that administers individual charitable funds from which grants and scholarships are distributed to benefit the citizens of the Greater Aurora Area, the TriCities and Kendall County, Illinois. Founded in 1948, the Foundation provides a simple and powerful approach to charitable giving. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations have the opportunity to custom design their own named funds that reflect their charitable goals and interests. Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to more than $75 million in assets and has awarded more than $60 million in grants and scholarships. For more information on the Foundation, visit www.CommunityFoundationFRV.org.
As a first-generation college student from a low-income family, I was worried about how I was going to pay for books and supplies. This scholarship will allow me to focus more on my studies instead of worrying about how to afford college. I am working to not only create opportunities for myself but to motivate future generations. Thank you so much for helping me along this journey!
Moises J.
Claude & Alice Allen Memorial Scholarship Recipient
There’s no question in my mind that the scholarship I received opened up possibilities.
Marianne Renner
Past Scholarship Recipient & Current Leadership Coach
A community foundation is a donor-driven organization that helps donors custom-design funds that reflect their charitable interests. Through the years, grants from these funds have made a significant impact on our local communities.
Sharon Stredde
President Emeritus
We chose the Community Foundation because of its reputation. It’s well known, established and we can trust them to do the job for us.
Dick Schindel
Richard and Susan Schindel Scholarship Funds
…you can always start small, even $25 can make a difference. Remember we can’t take our money with us. Even if it’s just your gift of time. Volunteer and get involved.
Cris Anderson
Cristina & Thomas S. Anderson Endowment Fund | Tom & Cris Anderson Colonial Advisory Fund
Thank you very much for supporting my college education for these four years. I will never be able to repay you for the opportunity that this scholarship has given to me.
Julia H.
[Renewing Scholarship Recipient] Graduate of Hinkley-Big Rock High School
