Create Now to be Honored by the International Visitor's Council of Los Angeles with the 2011 Outstanding Resource Award

Create Now has been giving presentations to international dignitaries in the arts through the International Visitor's Council of Los Angeles (IVCLA), a non-partisan, non-profit organization that brings emerging leaders recommended by U.S. embassies from all over the world to experience our culture and to increase international cooperation and understanding.

For over a year, we have been providing special individuals and groups of these global leaders in the arts with the opportunity to learn more about our work. Create Now is honored that the International Visitor's Council has selected our organization to receive the 2011 IVCLA Outstanding Resource Award, which will be presented at the Citizen Diplomacy Celebration on November 3rd at the Wilshire Country Club. We're thrilled to receive this tribute and grateful for the opportunity to share our work with emerging world leaders.

Probation Youth Make Life Books

Zuri Morales works as a Behavioral Specialist and he wanted to give back to his community in Silverlake. Create Now referred him to the Boys Republic, a group home for teenage boys on probation. Zuri has been mentoring there for the last nine months. "When I volunteer, I am helping my community construct a better future for this generation in need of guidance."

The Department of Probation requires their wards to make Life Books that include their history, goals, etc., which is an activity that the kids often hate to do. But when Zuri brought them ribbons, paint, feathers and other artistic materials, they quickly got to work.

Caseworker Laura Ballest said, "With Zuri leading the class, the boys like doing their Life Books. Many of the guys are here for anger, and with the arts, they can either write it or draw something so it comes out in a positive way, instead of negative. It gives them ideas so later on, instead of doing what they used to do before. we're showing them alternatives."

Julius (age 15) said, "It allows me to look at things with different perspectives. I can't draw so I like to be as colorful with my writing as I can."

Trayvon (age 15) said, "It helps me express myself and it's fun to do."

Cornelius Lee, Assistant Supervisor at Boys Republic said, "Since the boys have been attending Zuri's workshops, their ability to communicate has gotten better. They really appreciate his classes and look forward to it each week."

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