ANNUAL FUND A Message from our Executive Director Let me tell you about 9-year-old Shana, a beautiful little girl who lives in Gary with her mother and family. Her enthusiasm is absolutely contagious. A few weeks ago, she told me about her art. "I love to draw," said Shana, eyes beaming. "I'm good at it and it makes me feel special. I wish I could draw all the time." And then she proudly showed me one of her latest projects, a drawing of her with her family. Shana wasn't always so bubbly. She had been the quiet child, brooding, performing poorly in school and without interest in learning or friends. Then Shana had a chance to be in an after school art program run by South Shore Arts, and her world gradually opened up. As she found an interest in drawing, her grades improved. She began to feel better about herself and even made some new friends. That's what art can do-open a new world. Shana is one of thousands of children who, through the generosity of businesses like yours, are finding new worlds through the programs of South Shore Arts. In the 2004-2005 school year, South Shore Arts provided arts programming for 15,000 children in Lake, LaPorte and Porter counties-children who otherwise have little or no access to the arts. Having fun while learning. That's what South Shore Arts programs are all about. Says little Shana, "I would like to be an artist when I grow up. I think it would be great to have a job that's so much fun!" Your Gift to the 2005 Annual Appeal will help assure that students like Shana, and thousands of others, will benefit and grow from their experiences with the arts. It is a gift to their future. Thank you in advance for your continuing commitment to the arts. To make a gift, please call me today at 219/836-1839, ext. 102. Sincerely, John M. Cain Executive Director P.S. Please give today. There are thousands of children we don't reach yet and your generosity will help South Shore Arts reach them. Thank you!