IMPACT STORY: MEET MADELINE E.
- Becca Jackson Cusick
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
When Madeline first walked into BIG Studio, her confidence hovered somewhere between a one and a two on a scale of ten.
She loved performing - the spark was there - but she was scared to really step into the next level of what being a performer meant. She didn’t just want to sing; she wanted to grow. She wanted to act with more depth, rise through her school’s choir program, and take on challenges she once thought were out of reach.
So she made a choice. She chose to get training. She chose to grow.
She chose to go BIG.
And the scared girl who hesitantly tip-toed into the studio on the first day grew from her “one or two” in confidence to, in her own words, “a solid nine” — a young artist who stands taller, sings braver, and believes in herself in ways she never imagined.
But here’s the part that really hits:
When asked what she’s learned at BIG, her answer wasn’t just vocal technique or acting skills.
She said BIG helped her become a better person.
“I feel like it’s taught me some morals — how to be more accepting of people… how to be a more supportive friend… someone younger people can look up to.”
- Madeline
This is the heart of what BIG really is.
Yes, we teach music, theatre, and performance.
But underneath all of that, we teach courage.
We teach community and caring for others.
We teach young people what belonging feels like.
When Madeline describes the space, she said:
“You’ll feel welcomed and accepted right away. It’s very open, very light. You don’t need to be anything but yourself to be here.”
BIG is a place where students come thinking they need to learn to sing, but what they really need to find their own voice.
And Madeline? She's just getting started. She dreams of stronger acting skills, deeper self-growth, and continuing to evolve as both an artist and a leader.
Your generosity ensures young people like Madeline have a brave, supportive community where they can grow not just in skill, but in character, confidence, and compassion.
If Madeline’s story moved you, please give today.
Every dollar helps create more moments like hers.
Give because every child deserves a place where they don’t have to be anything to belong.
Give because kids like Madeline are becoming the leaders, artists, and humans our world needs.
Give because BIG changes lives — quietly, steadily, beautifully — one voice at a time.
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