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WHEREAS, the Mission of Visionary Performing Arts Academy (VPAA)is to provide students from all economic classifications with quality dance training, at an affordable cost, while building self-confidence and promoting individuality, commitment and discipline. Visionary has been serving the East End community of Pittsburgh for 14 years. More than 1300 students, 80% of whom are underprivileged, have benefited from the Visionary Performing Arts Academy programs. They have exposed the students to numerous cultural events, provided them with opportunities to participate in community service activities, offered peer group sessions for middle and high school students, which provided a safe place for discussion of personal issues and topics, instilled positive values, recognized and rewarded hundreds of students who achieved academic success. Despite the fact that Visionary Performing Arts Academy serves an economically depressed population, 90% of their participants graduate from high school, and attend college while in their program; and,
WHEREAS, founder Nicole Carter in 1996 partnered with the Hill House Association to offer a dance program for underprivileged youth. Nicole's visions grew more vivid and led her to find studio space of her own. In 1998 Nicole met Victor Carter, who also loved children and was involved in martial arts. Victor encouraged and supported Nicole to open a studio, that same year Visionary Performing Arts Academy was born. The studio was located in the Garfield area of Pittsburgh and provided a variety of dance styles and martial arts to children from all economic backgrounds, with special focus on underprivileged youth; and,
WHEREAS, in August 2007, VPAA moved to its current location in East Liberty and have over 100 students. Since June 2008 the annual recitals (now called productions) have been held at the Byham Theater, where students have performed for "sold-out" audiences several years in a row. Over the last 5 years Visionary has successfully facilitated monthly mentoring groups with the middle and high school students, called the "Beautiful Me" program. Here they provide a safe place for discussion of personal issues and topics, from sexual abstinence to redefining beautiful, and what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Most recently they have added a Bible study curriculum with emphasis placed on building a Godly character, discipline and confidence in Christ; and,
WHEREAS, Saturday, June 15, 2013 Visionary Arts Performing Academy presented their 14th Annual production to an attentive audience. Nicole & Victor believe that Visionary belongs to God and that He has opened these doors for the program. This couple takes interest in the personal lives of all their students and do all they can to plant seeds of self-love and confidence into each of their lives; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend and congratulate Victor and Nicole Carter, of Visionary Performing Arts Academy for their continued service and dedication to the community.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Tuesday, June 25, 2013, to be "Visionary Performing Arts Academy Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.