Jonathon was forced to meet with other boys at a place on Avenue D. Not to fight as one may want to think, but to sing. Yes sing! Jonathon wanted no part of this and his frowned face, slumped head, and lack of participation clearly reflected his discontent. But because of his mother's insistence and support by his older brother, Jonathon became a doubtful regular, coming to choir rehearsal three times a week. Deep inside though, he didn't believe he'd ever like being part of this group.

Fast forward to today. The frown wrinkles have been replaced by a bright smile on Jonathon's 10-year young face. With his head raised in humble pride, and joy in his soprano voice, Jonathon is excited to tell everyone that he is a member of the Treasure Coast renowned Avenue D Boys' Choir.

Look at some of the boys' past, and you will find a similar story. Under the leadership of new Executive Director Mary Hendricks, once insecure and troubled boys have been transformed to "Young Men of Honor, Pursuing Excellence, and Leading by Example", as they proudly recite in their mantra. Petite in statue, but with a huge heart full of unconditional love for these boys Hendricks, who has been their musical director and mentor from the very beginning, has found a way to break through some of the walls the youth have built for themselves in their young lives.

Though faith-based music accompanied by self-choreographed dance are key elements in their performance, what shines through to the audience the most is the unique bond the boys have formed - a brotherhood that extends far beyond any musical notes. Teary-eyed audience members often approach Mrs. Hendricks after a concert to say that they enjoyed the music, but seeing the boys and watching the sparkle in their eyes and the connection they share with one another, that's what really touched them. And that is what keeps the audience coming back to hear the boys sing time and time again.

And why do the boys keep coming back to the choir? After all, they could be spending their afternoons watching TV, listening to music, playing video games, or just hanging out. Squinting his little mischievous eyes and flashing that toothless grin of a six-year old, Beanie blurts out "To stay out of trouble!" While this is certainly one positive aspect, seventeen-year old Jared summed up the main reason why the boys are dedicated to the choir: "To give praise to God and to touch and uplift others".

But why read the above stories? Seeing IS believing, so come and see for yourself. The young men of the Avenue D Boys' Choir cordially invite you to "I Believe", their fundraising concert on May 28th, 2007 (Memorial Day) at 6 PM at Tradition Town Hall in Port St. Lucie. Tickets are $15 in advance/$20 at the door ($10 for children 12 and under) and can be purchased by calling Mary Hendricks at 342-6317. All proceeds of the event will benefit Jonathon, Beanie, Jared and their choir brothers. Oh, and just in case...tissues will be available gratis.