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La Colmenita
Children's Health DISABILITIES  To broaden access for all children, La Colmenita theater group reaches out to include youth with physical and mental disabilities. Rehearsals take place after school to facilitate the integration of children with disabilities who attend special schools. Children with limited mobility are coached and supported by their able-bodied co-workers. Although most children choose to join the theater groups, some children are referred to the group as a form of therapy. According to child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr. Michele Frank, participation in the theater group has a positive impact on children, including those with aggressive behaviors. MENTAL HEALTH Participation in theater and the performing arts increases children's self esteem, by providing a sense of pride and accomplishment. Research indicates that opportunities in the arts may provide a protective factor for antisocial behavior and youth violence. An evaluation by the Justice Deparment of arts programs for at-risk youth revealed the following benefits:
1. Decreased frequency of delinquent behavior and court referrals
2. Improved attitudes toward school
3. Increased ability to communicate effectively The US Surgeon General recognizes a commitment to learning and the expression of empathy for others as potential protective factors against youth violence. A 16 year old describes his experience with La Colmenita as "a school that taught me everything... how to be a better person and how to help other people." COMMUNITY BUILDING  Each session begins with all the child actors holding hands and sitting in a circle to discuss one good thing they did that day for someone else. La Colmenita has a grassroots foundation that emphasizes community building through involvement of family members and community volunteers. For more than ten years, the theater workshops and rehearsals took place in community homes. Parents made all costumes and donated the time and money for props, make-up and music. Local communities of children and parents have now developed La Colmenita groups all over the island to include10,000 children.
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