I loved music, drama, and poetry since I can remember.  I especially loved art that told a story or taught a lesson I could apply to my life and become a better person.  I love experiencing new and different things and having friends that I can grow as a person with.  I believe everyone should have the good fortune of the best that life has to offer us. 
     I began writing poetry in elementary school.  In about the 4th grade I wrote a poem for a product my father was selling.  In the 6th grade I wrote a poem about Lawrence West, a classmate.  I loved me some TV drama.  I could tell you what time it was by what show was on.  We skated and had a dance group in junior high.  I got a lot of practical experience in drama (practical not personal).  I began "acting" and writing skits in high school.  I got a summer job at the Urban League presenting helpful things to my peers.  That led to a job with Planned Parenthood's "New Image Teen Theater."  
     I began going back to church.  That deepened a since of responsibility and love for others that had been growing in me since elementary, when I listened to my parents albums of great civil rights leaders of the 50's and 60's.  I started a drama club at the 31st Street SDA church.  I ran that drama club and preformed while at Oakwood University, the University of Miami, and the University of Michigan.  We were blessed to perform for 10 years, in four states and did more than a hundred shows.
     I have been a teacher for more than 20 years.  I believe teachers have a unique opportunity to help youth and show their gratitude for what others have done for them.  I have a lot to be grateful for.  
     But working as a teacher sometimes limits helping youth in significant and transforming ways.  The curriculum does not focus on exposing youth to their possibilities.  Nor does it focus on helping them set "Lifestyle" and "Purpose" goals.  It is difficult to teach youth who are not aware of their possibilities and do not have goals.  The standard curriculum does not include the most important lessons: the beliefs, attitudes, values, perception, and skills that help youth set and attain their goals.  The educational system does not fully utilize the power of music, drama, peer educators, projects, and activities as powerful textbooks and tools.
    So I created "Project ReCreation."  We wrote and recorded 11 "message music" songs,  shot 40 videos (drama, high interest music videos, and peers telling it like it is), and put together projects and activities that engage and give youth the opportunity to grow, develop and live the quality life they choose and deserve. 
     Poverty, incarceration, drug addition, and poor health are common but don't have to be.  I want to help youth live happy lives.  I want them to live their "Dream Lifestyle" and accomplish their "Purpose in Life."  I want them to have a job they enjoy and that pays well.  It's my dream and pleasure to help young people.  Help me.  Share this program.

Sincerely,
Dr. Rick McKinney, Jr.