Representing the Treasure Coast of Florida
|
I Believe. I believe I can be a good student and citizen. I believe I can achieve great things in my life. I believe if I work hard I will succeed. Therefore, I will work hard each day to do my best, and I will allow nothing or no one to hinder my success. We are a 501(c)(3) designated organization. Our registered agent is Michael D. Fowler, Esq. We have been audited since inception by DiBartolomeo, McBee, Hartley & Barnes, P.A. Since 2004 the Avenue D Boys' Choir has nurtured the souls and minds of our young men to ensure they will be the best sons, brothers, friends, and students today; and the finest husbands, fathers, colleagues, and leaders in the future.
Special Appreciation: When Mary Hendricks and Dr. Earl Hendricks were approached about starting the Avenue D Boys' Choir, they called upon a long trusted friend who had an extensive business background and spiritual presence. Brenda Reed graciously agreed to become a founding board member of the Avenue D Boys' Choir and has supported the Choir since day 1. She continues to work tirelessly for the Choirs. Her efforts are most always behind the scenes, but always productive, successful, and appreciated. Thank you, Brenda Reed.
View our performance at the 21st Annual Porretta Soul Festival Then click on "Sabato" under Latest News July 23 2008
Visit our photo Gallery We're continuing to add photos so come back often.
Thank you for making our trip to Italy possible.
To make a donation: click here Avenue D Boys' Choir is a 501c(3) designated organization.
* FAQ: Where is Porretta Terme, Italy? Answer: Midway between Bologna and Florence on the southern border of the Emilia Romagna region.
|
Loss of an inspirational leader: It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we convey the loss of Kathy Basile, the Director of the Children's Services Council of Saint Lucie County. Kathy believed in the Avenue D Boys' Choir from the very beginning, even when others doubted us. Her faith and encouragement was a beacon for us as we grew and flourished. Kathy's life was about cultivating our youth. To read more about her, please go to this tcpalm.com article. Our condolences to her husband, Thomas Gonzales, her mother, Gloria Gesewll, and the rest of her family.
Link to TV Interview in Detroit We were blessed in Detroit to be interviewed by Rick Graham from TV 313 and radio 107.5 WGPR in Detroit after the Saturday, June 20, 2009 performance. Click on the link to see the interview with Co-Founder Dr. Earl Hendricks and several of our Avenue D Boys' Choir members.
June 15, 2009 It seems the hearts of Michigan from Detroit to Lansing have been captured by the Treasure Coast's own Avenue D Boys' Choir even before we can get them there. Knowing these young men, there will not be even one disappointed soul once they have experienced an Avenue D Boys' Choir heart, soul and spirit performance.
Visit our Detroit Travel Log
June 12, 2009
The Avenue D Boy's Choir has been invited to perform at the Motown Museum during their tour. In speaking with us about arranging a special tour of the Motown Museum, CEO Audley Smith asked if the boys would consider singing at Motown. He and his staff want the Avenue D Boys' Choir to sing and they want to have press on-site to recognize the Choir. While the boys may not yet realize the importance of Motown in our music and cultural history, rest assured the more 'mature' contingent of the Choir, i.e. the Executive Directors, staff and volunteers, are most certainly aware and most excited for this opportunity... for the boys, of course. We know that someday they will look back a recognize the signifigance of having performed at Motown. This event will take place Thursday afternoon, June 18.
May 24, 2009
The Avenue D Boys' Choir is announcing confirmed invitations to Detroit, Michigan in June and to our nation's Capital in September. The Avenue D Boys' Choir will be performing in various venues during both trips as well as having the opportunity to visit important historical and cultural sites. The experiences these young men have during these trips helps shape their future dreams and aspirations as they continue their education and grow into our leaders of the future. As in the past, we are certain they will be excellent ambassadors for Fort Pierce and the Treasure Coast, and we are grateful for the continued support from our communities. For more information about these trips, please click on our UPCOMING EVENTS link.
April 27, 2009
The Avenue D Boys' Choir represented the Treasure Coast well during a most successful trip to Tallahassee where they met and performed for Governor Charlie Crist
Saturday April 25 - Monday April 27, 2009 The Avenue D Boys' Choir stepped into the future history books on Monday as they made their way into the rotunda of the Florida State Capitol. It was the first time this year a group had been invited to sing in these hallowed halls, and sing, these young men did. They 'wowed' everyone in the Capitol with their acapella performance.
Phones rang off the hooks in Representatives' offices with inquiries about who these young men were and comments including "they brought me to tears." As usual, the Avenue D Boys' Choir touched the hearts of all who heard them.
Following the performance, they were recognized on the floor of the House of Representatives and then it was off to the auspicious Cabinet Meeting Room to perform for the Governor.
Following comments by Representative Bill Snyder, Governor Charlie Crist entered and warmly greeted the members of the Avenue D Boys' Choir. He, too, was 'wowed' by their performance. In his comments to the Choir members, he praised their hard work, their determination to succeed, and he acknowledged how much they are doing for and giving back to their communities.
In addition to the Governor and Representative Snyder, the boys were personally greeted by Representatives Adam Fetterman and Kevin Rader.
We thank FL Representative William Snyder for the invitation to Tallahassee and for his support. We look forward to meeting with him again soon about methods and means to support programs like this one and others in our communities. We also thank US Representative Tom Rooney.
To the members of the Avenue D Boys' Choir: we commend you. From the moment you stepped onto the bus to Tallahassee, to the Sunday performance at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, during the tour of Florida A & M University, at the hotel, and throughout the trip, you were terrific. The Hendricks and the chaperones heard nothing but praise for your good behavior, manners and attitude. Some people went out of their way to let you and your leaders know what fine young men you are. You truly are "young men of honor, pursuing excellence and leading by example." Thank you.
Listen to the Florida Public Radio Interview by Trimmel Gomes from the Capitol April 27, 2009
Avenue D Boys' Choir with Governor Charlie Crist
Avenue D Boys' Choir with Representative William Snyder
Special Thanks The Avenue D Boys' Choir extends our special thanks to U. S. Representative Tom Rooney for inviting us to participate in the anti-gang town hall meeting at the Sunrise Theatre in Fort Pierce on Monday, April 20, 2009. We were proud to have our Choir showcased as a positive alternative to gangs and we hope it will impact support for other alternative programs in our communities.
The Fort Pierce, Florida neighborhood of Avenue D has long been known for poverty, gangs, violence, and drugs, but in the midst of this despair are the growing and glowing sights and sounds of hope.
The Avenue D Boys’ Choir is a group of extraordinary at-risk youths who are determined to overcome the entrapments of their environment. From uncertain and diminutive beginnings in 2004, they are now a force for excellence growing in the heart of Fort Pierce and reaching out to the Treasure Coast of Florida and beyond. The Choir is purposely named after the neighborhood to show support for the families, friends and neighbors who live there, and who are also striving to move beyond the negative influences.
Maya Angelou wrote in her 1997 memoir, “Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness.”
Using music as the “hook” and the literal space between the notes to create a safe place and comfort zone apart from the destructive influences, the Avenue D Boys’ Choir was born under the spiritual guidance Dr. Earl Hendricks and the musical direction of Mrs. Mary Hendricks.
Hoping for a few boys that first day in March 2004, they started with 8 boys and within a couple of days had 18 boys solidly ready to commit to the Choir. A bit overwhelmed, yet mostly energized and movivated, the Hendricks were determined to cultivate this group and let the community know about the hope from within.
It was evident the boys craved the attention they found here and they were more than willing to do their best in all areas of their lives to keep this attention. Given the opportunity to respond to a disciplined environment, these youths displayed deep desires to lead successful and purposeful lives.
The Hendricks and the volunteers make sure every rehearsal session, at least three times a week, is meaningful. This includes time for mentoring, homework, positive dialogue, and lots of practice, along with a good meal afterwards. The Hendricks answer their phones day and night to offer guidance to the boys and their families. They do all this with great heart, immeasurable love, profound spirit, and lots of very sincere discipline.
Education Since that day in March 2004, the Hendricks and the community have found it significant that more than 200 boys have participated in the Avenue D Boys’ Choir and all who have remained with the Choir have graduated from high school. We now have seven (7) members who are attending college. A majority of the current Choir members maintain honors grades and are actively participating in the scholarship program with Indian River State College. These numbers include the boys from the Courts’ diversionary programs who most likely would have dropped out of school without the fellowship of the Choir.
Where we are today In four short years the selfless volunteer directors have taken the Choir from a few insecure boys and anonymity to a dynamic group of 40 (and growing) young men and boys who have performed from south Florida, to performing on the same stage as the visiting Vienna Boys’ Choir, and to a professional recording session with Grammy winner and renowned gospel artist Bishop Joe Simon in Chicago. They have performed for community groups, civic clubs, churches and schools. They have been welcomed into exclusive gated neighborhoods and private clubs along the Treasure Coast of Florida. They have twice performed the National Anthem for the New York Mets spring training opening games.
The Choir is growing into its own special sound and unique style. At each and every performance they touch the hearts and souls of their audiences. This is leading to an increasing number of requests for performances throughout the Treasure Coast, other areas in Florida, and beyond to other states, not to mention the trip to Italy this summer.
The developing notoriety and following is proving to be a positive influence in our community. More young men and boys are expressing an interest in joining the Choir. Once involved, their grades, behavior and attitudes improve. These changes often lead to improved family dynamics as well.
Any investment in Avenue D Boys' Choir is an investment in the future of our community..
Highlights from first half 2008: We were blessed to be able to perform in so many wonderful venues from private gated communities to a full length stage concert at the Sunrise Theatre in March. So many churches welcomed us and generoulsy gave love offerings to make our travels possible. Saint Lucie County and the Treasure Coast made it possible for our international travel. Here are some details about a few events:
Juneteenth in Fort Lauderdale This year, instead of a nationally known dramatic troupe, Avenue D Boys’ Choir was invited to perform at the auspicious Juneteenth Celebration at the New Mount Olive Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on June 20, 2008.
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, Juneteenth recognizes that it was months after the issuance of the emancipation prolcamation before most southern slaves learned of their freedom. Empahsizing achievement and education today, it is well that these young men and boys performed for this important observance.
This was a wonderful night of reflection about history, humanity, and the effects on human relations. We were very proud to have been a part of this commemoration, and we plan to be back at New Mount Olive.
Bishop Joe Simon June 21,'08 Bishop Simon was our special guest on June 21 for a Bon Voyage Celebration in honor of the Avenue D Boys' Choir's upcoming trip to Italy where Bishop Simon is headlining the 21st annual festival. Bishop Simon is a Grammy award winner and renowned gospel artist.
This was truly a wonderful event with performances by Sandy Mack, Perfect Harmony, Willie Russ and the KWA Ministries, others, and, of course, Avenue D Boys' Choir with Mrs. Mary Hendricks. Larry Lee, Jr. was the Master of Ceremonies.
The Avenue D Boys' Choir members felt so honored by the tremendous, full-house audience; and they were they were happy to be able to offer their heart-felt appreciation to this wonderful community who is making this trip to Italy possible.
Porretta Terme, Italy* 21st Annual Festival
See the photo gallery of our extraordinary trip to Porretta Terme, Italy and Paris,France Click here We're continuing to add photos so come back often.
Avenue D Boys' Choir Performance 21st Annual Porretta Soul Festival Saturday, July 19, 2008 Click here then click on "Sabato" under Latest News, July 23, 2008. If your medial player displays a timed slider bar, the Avenue D Boys' Choir comes on stage at 2:10 (2 hours 10 minutes into the video stream). The performance can also be viewed at http://www.radiosnj.com/ Click on Porretta Soul Festival 2008.
The Future:
Support & Fundraising The Avenue D Boys' Choir has big dreams and even bigger plans. It is up to all of us to see these dreams and plans happen.
The Choir and the directors, Dr. Earl and Mary Hendricks, are supported by a small, core group of volunteers for day to day operations, and by the community at large in general. Because the number of members and the performance demands are growing at a rate greater than the support, funding is falling short of the current needs to support all our activities.
The heart and soul these fellows share through their music has immeasurable impact. The love and pride they have is apparent. Whenever and wherever they perform, audiences of all cultural backgrounds are moved literally up and out of their seats. It’s impossible not to feel their joyful energy and unifying spirit. Their dedication to succeed in life is apparent and each one of these young men displays a positive attitude and superior level of conduct at all times. It is with great pride that they shoulder the responsibility of being ambassadors for Fort Pierce, Saint Lucie County, and the Treasure Coast of Florida.
DONATE NOW: Visit our store to purchase specialty items featuring the Avenue D Boys' Choir or to make donations: Avenue D Boys' Choir Store
We use PayPal for your protection. PayPal features the most secure processing. A PayPal account is NOT required and it is easy to use.
Checks or money orders can be mailed to the address shown below.
Avenue D Boys' Choir is a 501c(3) Designated Organization Our registered agent is Michael D. Fowler, Esq. We have been audited since inception by DiBartolomeo, McBee, Hartley & Barnes, P.A.
Avenue D Boys' Choir P O Box 2046 Fort Pierce, FL 34954
772-342-6317 Mary Hendricks, Co-Founder & Executive Director 772-882-2316 Dani Dreizehnter, Public Relations 772-461-5159 Fax
Email: avenuedboyschoir@yahoo.com
Upcoming Events click here
|
