Being the Change: Less Focus on Who Get's There First

We are laser focused on improvement, not in simply proving who can do it first.

KCC Lead Staff Writer

1/3/20252 min read

If you can't tell by now, we are passionate about empowerment! That is our favorite word! Young minds, through creative and performing arts programs not only expand their minds, just by the mere exposure to new ideas, but even wanting to do something positive. Seeing examples within their own communities help them see they too, can be the change, and while it's work - it's a good work!

tilt-shift photography of shoes
tilt-shift photography of shoes

In the Dallas, Texas area, there are several inspiring examples of organizations that are doing similar work that we intend to do.

Big Thought

A Dallas-based nonprofit that runs cutting-edge programs for youth that encourage creative thinking and help them reach their full potential. Their mission is to engage and inspire at-risk adolescents via diverse art disciplines, such as music, visual arts, and drama.

Young Audiences of North Texas:

Young Audiences of North Texas organizes arts education programs for troubled adolescents by bringing professional artists to local schools and community organizations. In order to encourage and support youth, they provide a range of artistic programs in areas such as music, dance, theater, and visual arts.


Dallas Children's Theater

Various programs are offered by the Dallas Children's Theater with the goal of empowering young people through the performing arts. They help at-risk youths build self-esteem, imagination, and public speaking abilities through their shows, seminars, and lectures.

Dallas Black Dance Theatre:

Outreach initiatives run by the Dallas Black Dance Theatre teach dance to troubled adolescents in the Dallas region. Young individuals can gain confidence, develop their creative abilities, and learn dancing through their programs.

Junior Players:

For disadvantaged kids in the Dallas region, Junior Players provides free artistic programs. They help young people develop their abilities and self-esteem by offering them programs in the visual arts, dance, music, and theater.

Understanding that young people are not broken or in need of fixing, simply because they might be a challenge to understand. Some kids take extra effort to "get" and when you say you want to "help", this is means more than just talking.

It means recognizing their inherent value and potential, regardless of any labels or challenges they may face. As adults, it is our responsibility to meet these young individuals where they're at, with empathy, understanding, and respect.

One crucial aspect of empowering at-risk youth is being mindful of the power of our words. It's essential to watch how we speak and avoid language that may unintentionally belittle or stigmatize these young individuals. Even seemingly harmless jokes or comments can have a lasting impact on their self-esteem and sense of worth, that goes for full grown adults too.

By taking the time to truly meet at-risk youth where they're at, we can make a profound difference in their lives. By showing them that we believe in them and their potential, we can help change their trajectory and empower them to create a brighter future for themselves.

At Krooked Crown Connects, we are committed to providing at-risk youth with the support and resources they need to thrive. Through our creative and performing arts programs, we aim to foster a sense of belonging, self-expression, and empowerment among these young individuals. Together, let's empower at-risk youth and help them realize their full potential.