Editor’s note: This feature is part of an ongoing series that highlights nonprofit organizations serving the Mercer Island community.

What is the mission of your organization? Youth Theatre Northwest nurtures the intellectual, artistic and personal development of children and youth through drama education, performing opportunities and live theatre experiences. About our programming: Youth Theatre Northwest is a school, theatre and home for children and families. At Youth Theatre Northwest, children and young adults explore the depths of their creativity and experience the thrill of live performance. Through the magic of theatre, YTN helps young people find their “inner light” of self-confidence, sensitivity, creativity and leadership. Since 1984, YTN has been one of the region’s premier educational arts organizations, providing a wide range of programming for tens of thousands of children and young adults ages 3 to 18 who come to YTN from throughout the Puget Sound region. Located on Mercer Island, YTN offers yearround classes and produces 10 professional shows per year for thousands of audience members. YTN’s staff consists of professional educators and working artists, and our curriculums align with Washington state educational learning requirements and professional artistic standards. For many of our young students and audiences, YTN is their first exposure to the performing arts. Youth Theatre Northwest is a tax exempt, 501 (c) 3 organization and incorporated in the State of Washington as a not for profit.

How many people does your organization help? Approximately 1,300 children a year participate in direct programming and our audience is about 10,000 people a year. For many of our young audience members, a trip to YTN is their first exposure to the performing arts.

What is your greatest need? Establishing networks to promote our programming (PTA groups, parent communities, etc.) and storage space.

How can the community help your organization? There are many ways to support YTN. Individuals may donate to support programming and scholarships. They may also volunteer by providing professional services such as marketing, graphic design, IT support and other skills.

What is the best way for the community to contact you? To support, please contact our Development Director Jessi Wasson at jessi@youththeatre.org or 206-232-4145, ext. 104.

We’ve seen residents’ heightened passions during the election season, and over controversial issues facing the Island throughout the past year. It is evident that residents care about the Island — and have a lot to give. As the year winds down and we shift into a holiday season of merriment, togetherness, gratitude and generosity, the Reporter will highlight several local nonprofit organizations throughout the next month as part of a “Season of Giving” series. If you would like your nonprofit to be featured as part of this series, please submit your answers to the questions in the following feature, and a photo of your organization, to editor@mi-reporter.com by 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1. We hope residents will find some organizations that resonate with their values, and will help support these organizations’ missions, whether through volunteerism, advocacy or donations.