Hands for Hope was created 12 years ago by Lydia Floyd who has remained as the organization's executive director and #1 cheer leader for her students. Lydia her husband Stafford and board member, Carol Wyner have devoted their money, time and heart to create a successful after school programs for at risk children and teenagers. These kids have a fun, safe, educational, nutritional and motivational place to spend their time after school. Programs consist of education in life skills, health/fitness, tutoring and career guidance. A very special part of Hands for Hope is their comprehensive arts program which includes training in dance, musical instruments and visual arts. Hands for Hope truly nurtures mind, body and soul.

"It costs $252,000 to incarcerate a juvenile for just one year and only $1,300 to support that same child in an after school program for the same amount of time" said Lydia. Los Angeles Unified School District has a 50% drop out rate in comparison to Hands for Hope's students which has a 2% drop out rate.

Take a few moments to view the video. Hands for Hope in action...

We used to hear "Support Jerry's Kids" (Jerry Lewis Telethon) Now I feel we should say "Support Lydia's Kids!"

"I have been going to The Starlight Jazz Serenade for 10 years and every year I am amazed at the talent on that stage...the best in Jazz you will see in one show."

Join me Friday, March 2 at 8pm at the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences 5200 Lankershim Blvd., NoHo 91601. For more information - Visit www.hands4hope.org