PONCHATOULA — Young artists are encouraged to apply for the 2025 sNoBall arts scholarship, a non-profit program that sends school-age children to local summer arts camps.
“We started these scholarships because we believe in the magic of the arts,” said Marcia Arceneaux, founder and director of The sNoBalls. “Whether it’s dance, music, theatre or visual arts, creativity has the power to change lives. We want to make sure every child with a passion gets their shot, no matter their financial situation.”
Led by a Tangipahoa arts educator, the sNoBalls formed in 2023 to raise funds to expand quality arts education to children in southeast Louisiana. Last year, the group sent three children to arts camps.
“We sent a child to summer dance training, another to a visual arts program, and a third to a multi-week theatre intensive,” Arceneaux said. “This year we are hoping to send as many as 10 children to camps.”
“Our scholarship application is easy. We’re primarily interested in why the child would like to go to the camp. We want to hear their voice, so we can support their success.”
Available at the sNoBalls website, thesnoballs.com, applications are being accepted through April 15.
In addition to parade appearances, these scholarships are made possible by The sNoBalls’ Baller’s Ball, an entertainment-filled fundraiser on April 5 in Ponchatoula.
“We’re throwing a big party for a great cause. I’m most excited about the DJ,” sNoBalls member Alicia Barnes said. “With our disco theme, it’s going to be music everyone knows, which makes for the best time on the dance floor.”
Barnes was drawn to The sNoBalls because of their mission of philanthropic fun.
“As a mother who has paid many recital and costume fees, had kids outgrown shoes just before a performance, and bought several violins as my kids have aged, I know the financial barrier for pursuing the arts is real,” Barnes said. “I love that through this event we can take some of the financial load off of families so these talented students can continue to grow.”
The group also prides itself on how this program supports local arts organizations.
“We love that our scholarship money covers the tuition at area arts schools and non-profits, such as Sunshine Studio Arts, the Kay Butler Performing Arts Project, and Main Street Dance,” Arceneaux said. “This year we look forward to adding more programs to that list.”
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