We have been part of No More Sidelines since almost Day 1. Their mission of inclusion no matter the circumstance has been setting the model for so many here in Muskegon for almost 20 years? Seems like the last incredible gala was 18…..it’s been a few. What began as a kid wondering why non of her friends ever slept over like her brothers and sisters friends did….well, it grew….a lot. Starting off with a few families and some sports…now in three cities in Michigan and still growing, No More Sidelines could use a hand from people who like arts and entertainment. Wanna be on stage? At the historical Frauenthal? LIsten up.
Cyndi Blair is the Founder of No More Sidelines and it was her daughter that wanted to be included. What’s come of that simple request has impacted lives both in the world of “special needs” kids and the “regular world” and those are both in quotes on purpose. Why? Once they come together, it’s found out quickly that those two worlds are more similar than they are different, and that’s where humanity flourishes.
The Penguin project pairs kids from No More Sidelines with mentors from the Muskegon Civic Theater for a production. This year, it’s Spongebob! It’s like any other play. Rehearsal. Practice at home. Rehearse more. Nerves. Performance and crescendo to a packed house. The kids from No More Sidelines are the stars, and right behind them…their mentor….just incase a line is forgotten, or a place on stage, or a moment of anxiety…or anything. Just there to catch your back should it be necessary. Getting out on a stage is hard. Believe me. It’s one of humans largest internal fears and to see these kids get out there and shine like they do is genuinely a moment that lasts a lifetime for everyone involved. Remember back a bit ago when Jeffery VanDyke told us about the “Ugly Laws“. This is di-rectly in the face of that. As it should be.
To be a mentor! That’s what’s needed here. It’s a commitment and a chance at something money can’t buy. You’ll be working with the NMS kids and pro’s from the Muskegon Civic Theater. You’re going to find new friends, new talents you didn’t know you had and most of all, you are going to get to see the same thing anyone else who’s been a part of this magnificent group has for years….how we are all more the same than we are different. The need is for high-school or college age mentors mostly….peer to peer kind of idea. If you are that younger set, please give it a think and get involved.
Cyndi Blair can be reached by CLICKING HERE for her email. You can call No More Sidelines at 231-332-3849
Learn more about the Muskegon Civic Theater and the Penguin Project. Learn more about No More Sidelines.
