When Andrew Flores became co-president of the Smile Club at Valencia High School this year, he quickly sought to establish the mission of bringing smiles to the community and the world. His research led him to Rocky Turner, co-founder of Mothers Fighting for Others, a Santa Clarita based non-profit providing education for children in Kenya.
"He's like the mastermind behind all of this," said Smile Club co-president, Gracie Rusk. "I think it is such a great opportunity, not only for Smile Club in the community in Santa Clarita, but also for the girls in Kenya."
Flores took it upon himself to contact other clubs including Valencia High Dance, the Valencia High and Saugus High Improv Club, and other students to perform songs, dance, and comedy in an effort to raise money and awareness for MFFO. Tickets and refreshments were sold at the Thursday night event, proceeds benefitting the cause.
"As the new Smile Club presidents, our mission is to help the community, serve local charities, and just try to make the world a better place," said Flores. "It was really touching to know that I could help a little kid out there in Kenya," he said.
Mothers Fighting for Others co-founder, Rocky Turner, would travel to Kenya herself to implement the learning process and raising thousands of dollars for the education of over 40 students, a very dangerous undertaking escalated by recent tensions in the country.
"I'm amazed that you put all of your talents together, from singing to dancing just to make people laugh," said Turner to the Smile Club presidents during the event.
The student-organized arts in education event not only brings smiles to kids in Kenya, but also encourages local students and residents to be kind to one another.
"It's so important to just be nice to people. It's such a simple thing and it's so small but kindness goes a long way," says improv performer, Gabriella Shaffer.
The Smile Club raised over $800 for the cause.
"I'm not part of like a big organization but I feel really humbled that I can do something that I enjoy to really help others," said vocalist and guitarist, Edward Kim.
More smiles to come?
"I 100% believe in using your talents to move forward and help the world. So I definitely believe I'll do this in the future and I'll continue to help whoever I can help," says improv performer, Olivia McAtee.
