Why HNDP?
HNDP has a tremendous opportunity be become a truly innovative non-profit arts organization which is why I jumped at the chance to become part of the leadership team. The work William and Aaron, it’s co-founders, have already accomplished is commendable so being able to participate in the next phase of growth and introduce HNDP to a greater number of participants is exciting.

Why HNDP?
I’m committed to working toward ensuring that public school children have access to everything they need to ensure the highest quality of life for themselves. I believe that children need access to a multitude of forms of artistic expression in order to develop as confident, self-reliant, and self-motivated individuals. Many children need an extra boost to help them connect to their educational goals and demands, and artistic expression is a powerful way to do so.

Why HNDP?
I’ve dedicated my life to serving youth, whether as an arts educator, nonprofit leader or through public art projects, such as when I collaborated with educators and activists to establish the East Palo Mural Art Project. I was impressed with the buzz HNDP created with their grassroots outreach. Once I looked into them, the programing further hit home as I also love music and hip-hop culture. Over the years, I’ve actively been a “digger” (collecting and archiving music), was involved in music creation and am currently a DJ.

Why HNDP?
HNDP provides a creative platform where kids and young adults are given access to express themselves. The neighborhoods they serve will continue to need these types of programs so to ensure their unique mission is fulfilled and play a role in establishing the organization will be an honor.

Why HNDP?
HNDP is part of a grass-roots movement to mobilize the youth towards positive change. It incorporates art, gaming, technology, music and so much more. The programming and workshops are sharing the tools necessary to succeed in the professional fields they aspire to be a part of.

HNDP is a movement that is needed in the world in this day and age. The programming is taping into the creativity of the young leaders today. It is an honor to continue to plant seeds of empowerment in the community through this organization.

Why HNDP?
I am emotionally tied to the HNDP.LA org, not only as co-founder, as the first success story. It gave me purpose during a time of personal lows. Having a refuge and educated support system gave me the confidence to leave a negative lifestyle behind. HNDP.LA has the tools needed to begin working towards your goals. I believe in HNDP.LA.

Why HNDP?
HNDP developed from the need for a safe space to have artistic expression and build community. As a performing artist in Los Angeles and San Jose, open spaces were pivotal to Aaron’s development personally and professionally. Having recognized a void in opportunities for young artists, HNDP was started in 2009 at Self Help Graphics & Art in East Los Angeles. After two shows, it was apparent the open-mic attendee’s wanted to do more than just perform, and thus the HNDP music business program was born.

Why HNDP?
As Los Angeles transforms into a city of innovation, the digital divide threatens to separate youth from developing into actively engaged participants. HNDP seeks to prepare the next generation for the city’s future instead of leaving them behind. With a focus on STEM we use game development and music production to build bridges of empathy and technology for children in under-served communities.

Why HNDP?