Dear Friends and Supporters,

Houston Institute for Culture is filling an important void in our city by promoting interest in our region's unique cultural history and understanding of our modern diversity. Our programs present opportunities for the public to participate and learn from diverse communities. We advocate for greater public support of the multitude of beneficial community organizations serving Houston and our region.

Our region's history is the culmination of many different cultures, and Houston today is one of the most diverse cities in the world, with one in four residents being foreign born. Through understanding our broad cultural histories and modern social interests, we are able to address serious concerns which, most everyone agrees, need to be addressed, such as violence and poverty. Needless to say, cultural activities -- arts, festivals, community forums and businesses -- are important to our quality of life.

It is important for all of us to share an interest in other cultures and to think for ourselves about issues raised in our complex world. Cultural literacy and community participation in diverse activities impact our quality of life by developing our interests, education and economy. The knowledge and exchange of ideas provided by cultural activities and exposure to diverse perspectives is invaluable, serving an important role in the social health and well being of our many communities.

Support from individual donors and foundations enables us to provide a variety of beneficial programs for the community. Our educational programs serve audiences near and far, from the thousands in Houston who have discovered classical Indian dance in live performances by Namita Bodaji, to the hundreds of thousands all over North America who have examined the traditions of El Dia de los Muertos on our web site. We bring the experience of diverse cultures to Houston classrooms and community centers, and take student groups on tours to explore important histories throughout our region.

We are presently organizing a youth education camp that will help at-risk children stay in school. By combining cultural education and adventure with hands-on lessons in diverse fields like history, geology, archaeology and political science, Camp Dos Cabezas will help participants value achievements in their life.

We are building even bigger bridges for the future with educational publications and media for Houston classrooms, and a long-range goal to build a Cultural Arts and Activities Center to serve as a hub for cultural organizations, educators and visitors to our city. We call this our own "field of dreams." If we build it... we know that many people will come to experience Houston's cultural richness.

To learn more about our current and future activities, please see our Report to Friends and Volunteers.

We thank you for your support,

Founder, Houston Institute for Culture

Please review our Levels of Support to learn more about the benefits of your contribution.

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HOUSTON INSTITUTE FOR CULTURE    info@houstonculture.org