ARTreach

When we launched ARTreach back in May, I was excited.  Wow, a program to put instruments that are just sitting around collecting dust to use.  On top of that, we had a grant from NCHS so we could purchase a new instrument for each one we received.  The community embraced this outreach program with arms more open that we had anticipated.  It is great to live in such a generous community.
When we approached the band and orchestra directors, they were both excited and skeptical.  Their concerns were legitimate and were addressed the best we could.  Once school started, they embraced the program, bringing me names of students in need of an instrument.  Finally, we were going to get instruments repaired and purchased.  We were seeing the next step of the program come about.
While all of this was wonderful, it couldn't prepare you for giving the instrument to a student.  Too see the faces and excitement on a 6th or 7th grader makes the program more that you could imagine.  They come in excited, they are about to get an instrument.  Then you show them the instrument, the excitement grows.  It is more than they could have ever expected, and it is about to be theirs.  As they walk out of the building with the instrument in hand, they have a glow of excitement that is about to explode.  They are ready to go home and practice.
On top of all of this, you have the parents.  They don't want to tell their child they cannot play an instrument because they can't afford one.  So, there is a sigh of relief come over them when you tell them the instrument is ready.  They are so happy and grateful for the generosity of the community and NCHS to have a program like ARTreach. 
ARTreach is one of the most rewarding programs I have ever been a part of.  The expression on the student's face will melt any heart and make even the worst day turn around.