Venture Description: Inner Vision is based on three principles: See, Think, and Act. Youth are encouraged to look around their communities and “See” different incidents. Youth then “Think” about the source of issues that surround them. Youth then “Act” on their surroundings based upon their observations and their considerations using their preferred method of expression. Youth are encouraged to consider both positive and negative issues so that they have a holistic view of their communities. Also, Inner Vision participants perform at local open mic/poetry venues and hold an Annual Gala in August.

Venture Origin: While I served on the DC Board of Education, many youth expressed a lack of artistic outlets in their schools. Later, I saw graffiti in a Metro Station by an artist who said that graffiti to him was not vandalism but art. At this moment, I realized that youth need a comfortable space were they could define “art”.

Innovation: After participants go through the S.T.A. process, they share their artistic expression with the community. Each August, Inner Vision holds an Annual Gala: Participants auction artwork and perform music and poetry. The Gala connects youth and adults to create strong, positive relationships that fuel the growth of the community. Thus far the Gala raised $1250 which sustains Inner Vision.

Impact

Impact: Inner Vision has served 30 young people since June 2005. Participants volunteered at Martha’s Table and held leadership seminars for 300 youths from across the country through a partnership with the Close-Up Foundation. Participants are involved in budget planning, promoting financial responsibility. The Annual Gala portrays youth as a positive resource in their community. This organization gives youth a safe space to find their Inner Vision.

Engagement with the community: Inner Vision is connected to a network of DC youth organizations. The Youth Action Research Group furnished Inner Vision with an office/meeting space. eSharpe Studio allows Inner Vision to utilize the latest equipment for music production and in music software and photography classes. Inner Vision collaborated with the Close-Up Foundation to hold workshops for 300 youth from across the country.

Impact and engagement progress since launch: Inner Vision exceeds expectations. Inner Vision began as a summer program but became a year-round program at the urging of youth. The expansion exposes participants to various talent competitions and performances. The Annual Gala renders an opportunity to engage community members. An alliance with the Close-Up Foundation allows Inner Vision to encourage and motivate youth from across the country.

Impact and engagement strategy: Inner Vision will make presentations and recruit within DC Public High Schools. Inner Vision will apprise more youth of its provided opportunities. We will collaborate with the Youth Action Research Group and other local youth organizations focusing on youth empowerment to strengthen Inner Vision. Such partnerships will allow participants to observe different methods used to evoke change.

Awards: * Certificate of Participation: Battle of the Bands * 3rd Place, Pink Peace:Stop the Violence Talent Show * 1st, 2nd,& 3rd Place, Jelleff Poetry Slam

Budget

Amount of Youth Venture seed grant: $700.00

Money raised: The Inner Vision Annual Gala raised $1,250; Individuals impressed by Inner Vision's impact within the community and service to youth donated an additional $700 total.

Creative ways of raising resources: In addition to the Annual Gala, our primary fund-raiser that showcases the youth’s talents, Inner Vision seeks individuals and organizations that will make purposely earmarked contributions. Additionally, Inner Vision will hold an Open Mic Competition in order to raise additional program funding

Strategy

Expansion plan for next 6 months: Recruitment in DC Public Schools; Preparation for Inner Vision’s Annual Open Mic Competition; Recruitment, performance and volunteerism at YMCA’s Legislative Weekend; planning of Annual Gala; Recruitment for summer programs and Open Mic Competition.

Plans for sustaining the project: The Annual Gala demonstrated an increase in profits and supporters; Inner Vision’s resources still grow. Participants receive training on leading meetings, maintaining a commitment to youth leadership. DC Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, and other organizations support Inner Vision, providing security.

Vision for three years from now: Inner Vision will be celebrated in DC High Schools. Inner Vision will provide the same services, but will reach more youths with a larger budget. There will be numerous, committed donors and supporters. Inner Vision will be renowned as a positive, safe place for youth to freely express themselves. Participants will design their own service projects to aid the community in the most fruitful way.

Project impact: Youth need assurance that people are invested in them. Inner Vision provides that assurance. Inner Vision is more than expression; it is a place where youth can escape from the turmoil surrounding them. There are numerous stories that attest to this fact: after the First Annual Gala, one participant left me a message. He said that Inner Vision saved his life. He was in trouble with the law and his home life was constantly in flux. This young man was only 14 and had already experienced more hardships than any teenager should have to experience. Inner Vision was there for him when he needed a positive, creative outlet to express his emotions. This young man, like many members, was here for a reason. Many youths attend the program for the opportunities and exposure that Inner Vision provides. One young lady wants to pursue a singing career. Through help from Inner Vision, she realized that she could create her own songs and image while retaining her individuality. Every young person in Inner Vision has a story; a story that is a vital thread in the fabric of our community. My purpose is to provide space and materials youth need to thrive and display their talents. Inner Vision gets youth to See, Think, and Act; but before any of that can occur, we must LISTEN.

Youth Venture movement - what it means and how you can contribute: To be a part of the Youth Venture Movement is to be a part of actual change. Throughout high school I was a member of numerous boards and groups that wanted to change issues; with Inner Vision I actually change issues. Youth Venture does more than provide funding; it provides guidance, support, and aligns youth with adults who are genuinely invested in youth empowerment. It is rare to find an organization that motivates and empowers youth to pursue social change on their own behalf. Inner Vision can further promote Youth Venture by encouraging youth to apply for grants, start their own ventures or assist other venture teams that promote a common interest.

Author:
Nathaniel
United States
Website: www.InnerVisionSTA.com