May 13, 2011

To Whom It May Concern:

The Fly Kids Program is a great program in regards to offering underprivileged youth ages 9-15 a great opportunity to learn, train , compete and dance to a level that most youth in their situation would never be able to get the chance to do. Mr. and Mrs. Wood have brought forth a dance program to the Glass Recreation Center that not only highlights the youth interests and talents in dance but also raising children’s self-esteem, confidence and mannerisms as well as teaching the children basic life skills. Youth are strongly encouraged to reach their potentials not only on the dance floor but in the classroom as well. The Woods strong education and consistent teaching background helps to well round each child who touches their life through this dance program. It is a year commitment to learning and growing through dance, self-expression, positive self-esteem and a willingness to strive to work as a team for the final product.

Mr. and Mrs. Wood have touched over 50 youth through this program in the last year of its inception. Open tryouts are held twice a year and new students are also accepted through solo tryouts which are usually based on raw talent and courage to perform in front of their peers.

The only requirement for the youth is to purchase a $10 membership fee to the Glass Recreation Center, where the Woods hold their practices, workshops and clinics. The Fly Kids have also achieved many accomplishments quickly in the past year by winning the Marching Auxiliary’s Regional Sweepstakes Award for the East Texas Dance area. They have represented not only the Glass Recreation Center and the City of Tyler positively but have been a force to other aspiring dancers.

I have seen so many success stories out of this program in the short time it has begun here at my facility. It is amazing to see youth smile; begin to believe in themselves and to even now strive for bigger and better things in their personal future. With this said, the Woods are helping to raise a child in a village where many obstacles befall these youth. One being lack of socio-economic funding for costumes, dance shoes, props, portable stage and other essential needs in any dance studio.

The Fly Kids have already performed publicly 6-9 times this past year, and the demand for their continued stage presence is always sought after. I predict this group of youth will go on to bigger and better things in the future and make all of us in our community very proud.

One final note, the Woods receive no compensation for their time, instruction and love other than the satisfaction to see a child achieve, believe and succeed. I greatly admire both of them for their selfless contribution to the overall final product all their young dancers strive to become.

This dance group is truly a great and positive result of two people who are trying to make a difference with true interest, discipline, respect and above all love of the children in their guidance.

Thank you very much for your time and sincere interest in our youth of this community.

Ann Santana

Glass Recreation Center Supervisor