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Creative Youth Motivated By Arts Learning or CYMBAL is a non-profit after-school program founded with the purpose of introducing all aspects of the fine arts to children living in the inner city of Toledo. It is the creation of Cecelia Johnson, a violinist for the Toledo Symphony Orchestra and is a cooperative effort by Collingwood Presbyterian Church, NIP, and the University of Toledo Departments of Music/Dance and Theater. Eight children from Glenwood Elementary School participated in the first year of the program. The two hour program sessions are held three times a week at Collingwood Presbyterian Church and expose the children to dance, drama, art, music, and singing. Although the 2003-2004 pilot program drew on children from Glenwood School, the program may expand in the next few years to include other areas of the central city. The program is funded by private donations and welcomes volunteers in many capacities. During the first year, approximately 45 volunteers worked as tutors, arts teachers, snack providers, and more. As well as being the founder of the program, Cecelia Johnson volunteers her time as the program's director. If you would like to make a donation to CYMBAL or volunteer your time to help with the weekly sessions, you can email Cecelia Johnson at ceciliahj@earthlink.net or call her at 419-475-2481. Return to NIP's Homepage |