NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, April 28, 2009 – The Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee (BGCMT) proudly announce the Wednesday, April 29, 2009 grand opening of the “KVB Media Center” at the Andrew Jackson Boys & Girls Club.
The multi-media arts center, entirely funded by Tennessee Titan Kyle Vanden Bosch’s KVB SACK Foundation, is the first of its kind for local Boys & Girls Clubs. The Andrew Jackson center will serve as a "prototype" for the KVB SACK Foundation which plans to build additional multi-media arts centers in partnership with BGCMT. Bosch says, "I am extremely proud of the KVB Media Center. It is a testament to many generous people who gave of their time, energy and funds to show that they will make a difference in the lives of children. I am anxious to see the wonderful work the kids will do there, the skills they will develop, and the career opportunities this media center will open. As an NFL football player I have a long list of on-the-field accomplishments, but with out question, my proudest off-the-field accomplishment is the installation of the KVB Media Center."
Building these centers is a vital step in the sustainability of arts education as a growing number of schools cut funding for music and art classes. These centers will put technology tools into the hands of young people and allow youth to creatively express themselves while also offering them market-ready job skills via training on professional equipment and software. Club Members, ages six to 18, will get practical experience in this music/TV/radio/film/design studio and recording facility. Complete with state-of-the-art cameras, video cameras, audio recording equipment and green screen, kids will participate in projects such as filming and producing short films and writing and recording songs.
Local volunteers and multi-media experts will volunteer with the youth, teaching them to use the equipment and software programs. Club Staff have an opportunity to learn as well and will develop special curriculum to emphasize the Club’s focus on arts programs.
Bobby Lee Smith, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee is grateful for the impact this studio will make within the Club. “What a great opportunity the KVB SACK Foundation has provided our youth through the KVB Media Center! Kyle Vanden Bosch’s generous investment will allow our Club Members to sharpen their technology skills as well as skills in music and video production art. We cannot thank Kyle and his foundation enough for what they do for young people that attend the Boys & Girls Club.”
The media center is currently only open to Club Members, but in the future, BGCMT hopes to rent the space to local musicians and students to aid with Club funding.
The ribbon cutting ceremony is open to the public and will take place on Wednesday April 29, 2009 at 12:45 p.m. at the Andrew Jackson Boys & Girls Club.
###