The Alchemist
Paulo Coelho
More about MMI Book Club

Programs

Moving Mountains Inc provides year round activities, it is a safe, supervised positive alternative to the streets. Scientific studies show that when youth are given a choice they will whole heartily engage in programs, offered in their own communities. It is a tremendous plus when the program is fun, challenging and offers life skills training that will last a life time. MM Inc. is such an organization:

MOVING MOUNTAINS THEATER ENSEMBLE

Moving Mountains is comprised of young actors, actresses, singers, dancers, writers and musicians, committed to exposing the serious social issues confronting their peers. By utilizing original plays with strong specific positive messages attached MMI theater productions promote to youth the importance of making good choices and expose the dangers to choosing to be a part of any negative actions such as, substance abuse, gang affiliation, violence, etc.

The current production, “A NEW DAY” opened to the public Spring 2009. The play speaks to the explosive epidemic of gun violence amongst inner city youth across America.

*“Last year, 426 black males between the ages of 14 and 17 were killed in gun crimes, the study shows. That marked a 40 percent increase from 2000. 'We need a bailout for kids at risk'* *AP, MSNBC (Study: Murders among black youths on rise), Dec. 29, 2008*

It is with great urgency that we work to “Stop The Violence”, the mantra for “A NEW DAY” we hope to perform for youth in NY, DC and Baltimore MD.

GIVE BACK FILM WORKS

For the burgeoning photographer, filmmaker, or graphic artist, MM Film Works supports and promotes the work and projects of the theater ensemble while exposing youth to the full cycle of media production. Along with equipment training, the youth are responsible for all promotion, art work and filming of the stage production and live performances. They are exposed to industry standard equipment and techniques allowing them to create their own media brand.

MMFW's have produced non-violence PSA's, and video promos for A NEW DAY. The team also attends film festivals, critique documentaries and films, have guest directors for Q&A sessions.

MENTORSHIP AND OUTREACH

These services are ongoing, with youth being interviewed when they register by a member of the MM team who will then assess the individual needs of the applicant. Participants are assigned to mentors, or partner organizations on a needs basis. Youth meet with a counselor/mentor on a monthly basis within the program to determine future needs for assistance if needed. This aspect of the program works to ensure that each participant has the support he or she may need to be successful academically and in any other area of their personal lives that they may be struggling with. MMI Youth Advocates keep an open invitation to all participants for a confidential adult ear that with give the best possible guidance or a referral to a professional service to meet the individual need, as well as, follow up. These services are open to all youth and not limited to MMI members.

In the past year this component has addressed issues which were mostly academic; such as tutoring, redirecting into HS school/registration, school transfers, internships and mentor-ship placement, GED and college/financial aide applications. In addition youth were in need of and assisted with, referrals to legal assistance, health issues, and counseling services. Weekly activities are held at temporary space donated to Moving Mountains by City Council Member Mealey in Brooklyn, NY, with mentor-ship and training sessions. Major event locations are acquired through partnerships, rentals or donations; we utilize such spaces as The Brooklyn Museum, Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn Neighborhood Network Studios, M.S. 2, BVR Studios, and SH Recording Studios.

MOVING MOUNTAINS BOOK CLUB

Good reading habits and comprehension are essential to character development in dramatic performances for stage or film. The MMI Book Club was formed to encourage youth to read for fun and for understanding of diverse cultures. Using carefully selected books the club builds on the practice of reading; improving literacy, vocabulary, and understanding for the characters they hope to portray.

The club selects a new book each month and comes together at a tea to discuss their favorite characters. They were excited to meet author Felicia Pearson after reading her book GRACE AFTER MIDNIGHT for a Q&A. Tettir Williams has also made her book available Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul and has met with the group as well. Making literacy a fun activity as well as gives added motivation to read.

MOVING MOUNTAINS INC. COMMUNITY SERVICE

MMICS works to build a sense of community and responsibility to that community. By creating opportunities for youth to serve others they develop not only the satisfaction and increased self worth that comes from a job well done but they will also grow into productive adults who are now in the habit of serving their community.

MMICS youth participate in seasonal projects such, coat drives for the homeless in the winter, toy drive at Christmas, and back to school supplies drive in the fall. In addition, high school members of MMI provide tutoring service to Elementary and Middle school students from neighboring public schools. These sessions take place in the rehearsal space every week and foster a bond for the younger students they tutor giving them an alternative to negative "at-risk" free time behavior.

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