The 5 W’s of the BBI…
Who are we? The Bird Box Initiative Foundation is an organization focused on supporting creative youth within our community.
What we do? We find and recruit luxury venues, as well as, unique spaces to curate events highlighting their artistic mediums.
Why do it? We’ve seen the decline of school funded art programs over the years, and are hopeful that the BBI can provide a small space of creative refuge. We’re fueled by the individuals that provided us the same, the ones whom inspired us instead of allowing us to perch.
Where to find us? We are expected to begin operation in communities nationwide as early as 2022. And very excited to launch our highly anticipated initial event this upcoming Summer in our selected city of Minneapolis, MN. You may also find and follow us on Social Media!
When we operate? We provide biannual events each calendar year. For more information regarding these events check out the “What’s Hatchin’” section.
How ALL of this is possible? Have you ever heard the saying "It takes a village to raise a child." Well, it takes a community to support artists. We are honored to be working with some amazing community leaders, companies/sponsors, venues, and business professionals dedicated to bringing the BBI vision to life!
Voilà - The 5 W’s of the BBI.
**NEW: The BBI is currently suspending all event/recipient operations until further notice. We eagerly await rejoining our artistic community as soon as we can! But our initiative never ceases, if you would still like to join as an Ad Hoc member(s) and/or Board member(s), please email your interest to hello@birdboxinitiative.org!
Here are a few of the faces behind the initiative, the BBI Board :
Nichole White
Founder/Board Chair
The youth within her community know her simply as "Cho." Cho is a spirited orator, published author, mother (and co-mom) to four beautiful children. Cho's passion for her community and art have blended into an initiative and foundation that give talented youth the same opportunity her own mother provided. A platform. A voice. And a sense of belonging. “It is my hope to create spaces and events that are full of love. A space to support their uniqueness and individuality. But most importantly, a space that encourages yet celebrates their creativity, and artistry.”
Matt Marakovitz
VP, Strategic Services/Marketing & Finance Chair
Matt’s creativity and expertise is evident throughout his career, by his ability to translate new strategies into in-market success. Matt has mentored many business professionals over his 20 years in Marketing & Strategy services. Matt enjoys film festivals, spending time with family and friends, also experiencing/supporting local businesses.
Dawn Serpa
CEO, B-Glowing/Outreach & Mentor Chair
Dawn has over 20 years of experience leading companies specializing in digital consumer strategies . She’s passionate about varying mediums of artistic expression! Her commitment to mentoring youth is best said in her own words; “Children and young adults are the future. There is no greater gift then guiding them toward a purpose and watching them thrive in the pursuit of that purpose.”
Nehemiah Harvey
Director of Culture & Operations/Event Vice-Chair
Nehemiah knows how a community can become another branch of family. He was raised to treat others like an extension of that family. Warmth, kindness, acceptance, and a giving spirit are just a few core attributes Nehemiah inculcates into the next generation of leaders and artistic innovators.