The Winston Project, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing prevention and intervention programs and services to Mississippi youth to combat juvenile delinquency. Winston is a major sponsor for the new organization. The kick-off fundraiser for the organization was a concert benefit event featuring George Winston live at circa.- URBAN ARTISAN LIVING in Jackson, MS, February 25-26, 2011.

George Winston spent some of his formative years in Mississippi and feels a strong connection to the state. He was a student at Chastain Junior High. “The time I spent in Mississippi has greatly inspired my music. I donʼt want to take money from the state; I want to give back. I know that there is a need to help MS youth through mentoring, tutoring, activities, whatever they need to fulfill their dreams and to become productive citizens. So, Dr. Schriverʼs founding of the Winston Project is important to me.”

According to Dr. Janet Schriver, the Director for the Winston Project, “Weʼll do what it takes to get kids involved in after school activities. We know that 3 – 6 PM are the peak hours for youth to get in trouble. The arts will play an important role in our organizationʼs activities. “Weʼre using art as a programming focus, but our definition for art is very broad. Thereʼs the art of drawing, dance, piano, cooking, basketball! Weʼre looking for the spark in every youth and hope that we can help ignite it.”

The organization has a unique concept for program development. They are partnering with nationally recognized non-profit organizations that have exemplary programs. Then, the Winston Project, Inc. is serving as an outreach resource for them. The concept was a brainchild of Schriverʼs. “It just makes sense that we should give our youth the best programming possible. So, we are getting certifications, ideas, and support from a couple of partner organizations already. With this concept, the Winston Project can be the conduit for outstanding programs for youth.” The Search Institute, a fifty-year old non-profit in Minneapolis acclaimed to have developed one of the most successful approaches to getting kids on the right track is working closely with the Winston Project. The Best Friends Animal Society in Utah is using the Winston Project for their outreach arm. Leigh Breland, the representative for the local program said of the partnership “Iʼm delighted to serve as a resource for Winston, itʼs just one more way for us to help animals and kids.” With Winstonʼs help and Schriverʼs determination, the Winston Project promises to be an asset for Mississippi.

For more information on how you can become involved, email janetschriver@aol.com. Financial gifts as well as sharing of your time and talents are welcomed.