Raised mostly by his grandmother and exposed to all too many chances to take the wrong road in life, Willie took advantage of the Academy's community outreach programs and eventually enrolled for free tennis lessons. Fused with personal and academic guidance in a structured care environment, the Academy's mentoring and discipline kept him off the streets. With the opportunities and guidance offered by the Academy, Willie went on to attend college and graduate magna cum laude in May of this year. He is now employed in the highly competitive Target Stores Management Training Program and exemplifies the evening's thematic tone and the Academy's values and goals.

The November 2004 gala will be a wonderful night of fine food, companionship and truly uplifting stories and examples of all the great things the Academy and its alumni have accomplished. All proceeds go directly to the Academy and directly benefit at-risk, vulnerable children who simply do not have choices.

Kelly Gale Amen, noted Houston interior designer, will donate a one of a kind, hand-painted table, custom chaise lounge and special KGA Signature "Poof" (see similar artwork), the ultimate in artistic dog bed luxuries. Each item is constructed of original, hand-painted fabric crafted by Academy students.

KGA helped students in designing and decorating the "Tennis-Paint-Ball" canvas artwork on July 26, 2004 at Memorial Park. Students created their designs by dipping tennis balls in paint, then throwing them against the canvas to leave unique impressions for posterity, just as each child makes a different impact on the world around them.

KGA is pleased to support the Academy and its goals by donating his time and artwork to this year's event. "Our future lies in the hands of children -- they become the next creative force through what they see, touch and embrace," said Amen.

KGA will present the custom painted table, chaise lounge and KGA Signature "Poof" (see similar artwork) as art furniture contributions to the live auction in November.

The Zina Garrison All Court Tennis Academy programs target maturing youth, helping them foster individual talents, make new friends and build self-esteem. Through the combination of tennis, fitness and academics, the Zina Garrison All Court Tennis Academy programs encourage friendships across socioeconomic and racial divides, instill work ethic and a sense of responsibility in the community, and teach students to respect each other both on and off the court. Mentors inspire goal setting and professional staff teaches students to challenge themselves in the pursuit of their dreams. Students are engaged in discussions on character and social issues. Through these programs youth are given the skills to succeed in both tennis and life.

To find out more information about the "Tennis-Paint-Ball" event, The Zina Garrison All Court Tennis Academy and the "Oh, the Places They'll Go" Benefit, contact Linda Elliott, Executive Director, 713-857-3167.

KGA Honored by Zina Garrison All Court Tennis Academy as 2005 Service with Love Award Recipient

KGA Showcases Zina Garrison "Tennis-Paint-Ball" Artwork at 2004 Houston Home Show

Zina Garrison All Court Tennis Academy : Related Website