IOWA
Learning to be nice takes work, but is important for every child to understand.
The Iowa West Foundation gave R.E.S.P.E.C.T.2, a research-based nonprofit organization from Omaha, a $20,000 grant to help with the process.
"We used the money to perform a play called 'The Power of Nice' in 22 different locations," program director Brandon Rohe said. The play involved children to teach them about kindness to animals, themselves and others. It taught how powerful the impact of "being nice" can be. Staff actor-educators performed and discussed the plays with the children. "The plays are highly interactive," Rohe said. "Kids are yelling, 'That's not nice.' It's great."
"The Power of Nice" was performed for pre-kindergarten children between March 3 and 27. Bears, donated by Haxby Bears, were passed out after the plays for the children to interact with. This gave the children opportunities to use the power of nice with the bears. "Each bear is different – just like us," Rohe said. "They need love and care."
R.E.S.P.E.C.T.2 (Relationship, Empowerment for Students, Parents, Educators & Community through Theatre) works to bring together a community collaboration to build healthy relationships among children and youth through theatre. Its goal is to decrease, prevent and eliminate bullying and teen dating violence.
Rohe said R.E.S.P.E.C.T.2 would again apply for a grant to perform the "Power of Nice" play next spring.
Lindsay Blake
16 April 2008
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