Arts with a mission.

We love how young kids naturally love to dream and have great vision for themselves. Somewhere down the line, they are faced with a reality that takes them off of that course. Our job is to put them back on track and give them tools to accomplish what they desire through practical life and leadership skills

Why the Arts?

Creativity is one of the most important elements in a child's life.  It is a place where they can be free to express themselves and discover their strengths.  In learning a skills like music or dance, the artist is challenged with many life lessons: how to discipline themselves to reach goals, how to push through difficult times, how to come out of your comfort zone, how to step up and be a leader when needed, how to get along with and respect others, etc.  Confidence, leadership and understanding how people work are naturally developed.

My Story

 With a childhood background as a refugee of Cambodia, and the troubling teen years I spent around street gangs, facing hopelessness, and neglect, he began with an endeavor to help young people like himself find their self-worth and value, while discovering their passion in life.  As a struggling teen of Fort Vancouver High School, it was my passion for dance that helped him feel like there was something to live for, when times felt the most bleak.  This positive outlet in my personal life, turned this “endeavor” into my life mission; to not only to equip kids with the tools needed to overcome adversities, but to also enable them to stay ahead of the game, by teaching ways to thrive in the midst of misfortunes and still develop the core person within.  Dance is the vehicle we use... to teach leadership and success principles, and to give kids a second home where they can feel "safe".  Together with Groove Nation, we have served tens of thousands of kids in the community, many of which have gone to colleges, started their own businesses or have come back to work with us, and help others like themselves.

Leadership. 

While in the program, select students are also given opportunities for a higher level of training, to shadow and to be mentored by artistic and community leaders.  In addition to the life skills, these students learn both work and leadership skills that can one day set them on the path to the career of their choice.  Why is leadership important?  Just like a lion - while it is not the strongest or fastest animal in the safari, the fact that it THINKS it is, is what gives its title as "the King of the Jungle".  Courage, Leadership, Strength and Passion are the bricks on which we build this program, with leadership being at the forefront.  

Our Mission: 

Is to inspire and equip ordinary kids into becoming tomorrow's community leaders, by utilizing their passion for the arts, providing key leadership training, and cultivating a safe environment for growth, we show them how to use their gifts to serve the world around them

Beau Sem
Executive Director, Mentor