Hello my name is Marissa Houston and I've been granted an amazing opportunity to serve my the children of my country I might not be able to take. 


I've been offered the wonderful chance to intern with Turnaround Arts at The Kennedy Center for Performing Arts this summer. For those who don't know, Turnaround Arts is dedicated to putting arts back in public education -- specifically in underserved and under performing school districts. The Kennedy Center is so imperative to creating equitable access to the arts and I can't believe I have the chance to be apart of this program. 

Since starting graduate school, I've tried to find concrete ways in which my MFA can (& will) be used as a wider tool to help my community and those most at risk -- children (I was recently awarded a grant for the upcoming fall, to institute a community based storytelling project that aims to elevate the voices of Oakland, CA youth). This internship will teach me how to to create art-based programs and network within the philanthropy industry to ensure that these programs are funded. 

Which brings me to how YOU can help me do this. I recently said good-bye to my ESA animal, a beautiful cat named Pretty. She was helping me grieve the loss of my mother last year and now I must grieve Pretty. Pretty had hidden heart issues that culminated in me having to spend a large part of my budget ($1,034.16 to be exact) to humanely put her to sleep (which was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do). 

I also will be working almost full time for Turnaround and won't be able to look for a part-time job until I get to D.C. I already have housing lined up, but I'm asking if you would be willing/able to help me ensure that I'll have the full amount for my sublet lease, plus Metro Fare, as to I'm almost certain I'll be commuting in from Maryland. 

I will be grateful for anything you can spare/lend. 

Thank you so much for your time, 
Marissa