Joni Prince

December 4, 2007

Her multiple endeavors in drama, dance, tour groups and summer camps not withstanding, the real success of her Ministry Through the Arts, Joni Prince told Putanm Rotarians today, is the chance to change lives.

With obvious passion in her voice, she told the story of an introverted and alienated young teenager who came to one of her "Urban Stage" classes in Charleston. "He knew only a couple of dance steps. We gave him some taps for his shoes. In two days he found his talent as a dancer. In a week, he had become a leader."

"Students of the arts," said Prince, "are four times more likely to achieve academically. And three times more likely to be elected to office in their schools."

The 360 plus students in her Christian Academy of the Arts range in age from two years to adult.

Nearly half of them are on some type of scholarship. The Academy pays about $3,000 a month in student scholarships, she said.

Arts in Action is a Section 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that operates through gifts and offerings by sponsoring churches, civic groups, and businesses.

The arts ministry program served about 190 students last year in summer camps, and planning is underway for camps in the future at the Clay Center, in Charleston's East End and at the Hurricane studio.

"The arts can open up a world to kids and give them a way to express themselves," she said. The discipline of dance and drama enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills.