The class is so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Ms. Griffith’s fourth grade class is settled in, patiently waiting for instructions to start their day. Moments later, kids shift their attention to the door slowly creaking open, staring in disbelief at the person entering the room.
In comes a smiling, sturdy kid with a pencil and backpack in tow.
The tone of Ms. Griffith’s class quickly changes…a few
snickers, a few gasps, and lots of stares – most likely because of Cory’s large build for a 9-year-old, wide grin, and larger-than-life personality to match.
Thinking back, Cory remembers experience after experience like this. He took them in stride, but sometimes they planted a seed of doubt. You see…Cory has always had a passion for the arts, but the reaction of others often made him wonder if that was the right path for him.
“I’ve always loved performing and creating but people expect me to be somewhere playing football or something. I heard people saying this so much, it made me question my abilities. I thought maybe I’m not that great at being an artist.”
Thankfully, Cory found the trifecta that supported his passion– school, family and the Boys & Girls Club.
He started at the DeKalb School of the Arts and was surrounded by kids who shared his interests and passions.
He embraced that art was in his DNA…his mother an avid Prince fan and his father an architect. And he found the Boys & Girls Club – a second home where he could nurture his talents, discover his true self, and get access to life-changing experiences.
It was at the Boys & Girls Club where Cory says he “got a confidence boost” to move full speed ahead with his pursuits in the arts.
“People like Mr. Bryan and Ms. Cynthia encouraged me to be the person I am. They told me to just be me. My Club gave me the stage to be my own little star.”
As the little star grew up, he began to take on the main stage. During his time at the Club, Cory had many life-changing experiences that allowed him to hone his craft and discover the possibilities out there for him.
“KKCC (Kiwanis Kids Cultural Challenge) was one of the first things I did when I enrolled in my Club. I helped paint the banner for the parade we did to celebrate different countries around the world. We won that year.”
Cory also went on several trips to see Alvin Ailey Dance Theater and singer Al Jarreau. He said he found inspiration from the paintings he saw on his Club adventures to the High Museum of Art and Museum of Art Design Atlanta (MODA). He was even voted Youth of the Year at his Club and delivered an original speech for more than 600 guests.
Cory’s former Youth of the Year mentor said he’s impressed by Cory’s transformation into a confident leader.
“I believe Cory has become more comfortable in his own skin,” said Al Keeler. “He’s a very talented individual in many facets. It’s been great watching his journey.”
In addition to his personal growth, Cory says it was a host of mentors and staff at his Club who encouraged him to inspire other kids and teens to find their voice. “I love to hang out in the art room with Ms. Shanessa and give kids pointers on how to make crafts.” The game room is his other personal favorite. That’s where many kids gather to make up new dances.
All of these experiences have prepared Cory for his next step – the future where he can use his voice, showcase his skills, and create a platform to give hope.
After graduating from high school, Cory will attend the University of the Arts in Philadelphia to study directing, playwright, and production with a minor in musical theater.
“I want to be a professional performer who leaves a residue on someone’s life. I want my art to make an impact on people. You never know what someone is going through. Art can cure. Art can change lives.”
Learn about how you can get involved in inspiring youth through arts programming at Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta here.