By providing financial assistance and deserved recognition, HOLLA! aims to empower students to maximize their full potential and make a meaningful impact on their futures and the world around them.
Mary E Little and M.R Bell Excellence in Achievement Fund
Scholarship Amount
$500 per recipient
Eligibility
Anson High School's college-bound seniors
Selection Criteria
Grades, community involvement, volunteerism, and future goals
From Reluctance to Stardom: Kenya's Journey
The Audition
Kenya Myles auditioned for "The Lion King Jr." hoping for Nala but was offered Rafiki instead.
Initial Hesitation
"At first, I was very reluctant to play Rafiki simply because as a dark-skinned girl, I have had my fair share of being called ignorant names."
Finding Connection
"As we got deeper into the story, I started to build a connection with my character Rafiki because I felt like we held the same job: 'to keep the balance.'"
A Life-Changing Performance
Singing Talent
Kenya became "an inspiration and leader to the entire cast" with her singing ability.
College Visit
HOLLA! took cast members to Livingstone College to honor retiring president Dr. Jimmy R. Jenkins, Sr.
Scholarship Offer
After Kenya's performance, Dr. Jenkins offered her a full music scholarship on the spot.
HOLLA!'s Mission and Impact
Maximizing Potential
Empowering students to achieve their dreams
Community Support
Filling gaps for underprivileged youth
Strong Foundation
"Easier to build strong children than repair broken men"
Founded in 2005, HOLLA! (Helping Our Loved ones Learn and Achieve) supports the educational system in Anson County, providing opportunities for young people in this small, economically challenged community.
The Unexpected Arts Program
Arts Council Partnership
N.C. Arts Council approached HOLLA! about being a provisional partner
Diverse Programs
Talent shows, poetry classes, photography contests, and festivals
Lion King Production
Inspired by another county's show, HOLLA! brought the production home
Early Exposure
Now focusing on elementary school productions
The Power of Performing Arts
Healing Trauma
Arts play roles in addressing trauma and supporting healing for youth who have experienced difficulties.
Building Communication
Kenya noted that being in the cast improved her communication skills and taught her better interaction.
Developing Leadership
Being elected cast leader gave Kenya "a better sense of maturity and responsibility."
Creating Community
"I got to create my own little family... it became second nature to just be a village."
Kenya's Future Path
Music Major
Pursuing music studies at Livingstone College
Psychology Minor
Studying psychoanalysis for underprivileged and abused youth
College Opportunity
"I probably wouldn't have even considered college until I could pay for it myself"
Hakuna Matata: No Worries for Her College Days
Life-Changing Scholarship
Kenya received a full music scholarship to Livingstone College after her performance as Rafiki.
Musical Future
Now a freshman at Livingstone College, Kenya is pursuing her passion for music and performing arts.
HOLLA! Impact
"They strive for a better community and the consistency of helping others has been very influential to myself and others."
Scholarship Recipients
HOLLA! continues to support deserving students through scholarships and programs. Kenya's story is just one example of how the organization creates life-changing opportunities for youth in Anson County.
HOLLA! Scholarships: Empowering Students to Achieve Their Full Potential