Max’s Kansas City Project Spring

Dear Patrons and Friends:

Spring Greetings!

We are excited to share what has been brewing at the Max’s Kansas City Project as we remain steadfast in providing a safety net of emergency relief for artists in need. 2023 was jumpstarted by paying the rent for two applicants, and, for Black History month (through our Mike Quashi aka the Limbo King award) we honored two powerhouse women: our very own Hudson Valley sweetheart, singer/musician/artist Simi Stone, and the amazing jazz singer Keisha St. Joan, often referred to as “the Ambassador of Jazz”. In addition, three other applicants rents were satisfied in March, April and May. For Gay Pride month we have reached out to the LBGTQ community to honor an individual in the arts living in the Hudson Valley.

Our Teen Hot Records Award, going into its 18th year, kicks off this summer with the selection of two deserving underprivileged teens, each receiving a scholarship to attend a summer program in the arts.

We are thrilled to be launching our MAX’S FEARLESS YOUth Youtube channel, by teens for teens, co-hosted by two Kingston high students, Elizabeth Kibula and Katie Sevilla. We recently filmed the first of ten episodes at Hudson Valley Visuals. Elizabeth and Katie will interview creatives who found their focus on the arts prevented them from going down the rabbit hole, plus other topics of importance to them. Our mission is to produce 10 podcasts, and create a marketing plan to attract subscribers. We found during COVID that our youth were suffering from the isolation and needed mentoring. Three studies showed that focusing on music and the arts as a creative outlet reduced the risk of substance abuse and suicide. The more dopamine that is released into your system, the better you will feel. The channel will also include other features such as weekly inspirational quotes, monthly meditations with a mentor, music and arts masterclasses, videos, live streams by celebrities in recovery and Max’s Kansas City trivia questions.

We very much need your continued support to accomplish our goals. Share in joy of helping others by making a tax deductible donation.

With gratitude

Yvonne Sewall & Staff