Star Power: Isabella Perrone

Meet Service Star Isabella Perrone, 16. Isabella started a nonprofit organization, En Pointe Bels, so she could share her enthusiasm for the performing arts with other kids. She gathers theater and dance costumes, which can be expensive. She donates them to organizations on the East Coast, to lower financial barriers for kids who are interested in performing. She’s donated hundreds of costumes so far. TFK Kid Reporter Vicky Sun spoke with Isabella about her efforts.

Where did you get the idea for En Pointe Bels?

I used to go to a dance studio that covered all dance styles. We would have to buy a lot of different costumes for my performances. They were pretty expensive, and you’d only use them once. So each year, the costumes just piled up in our attic.

You’ve donated hundreds of costumes. How do you collect them?

I have a club at my school, and we raise awareness about it. I also put posters around my town, and people can drop costumes off on my front porch. Where I live, it’s a pretty dance-heavy town, so if you tell one mom, it gets to all of the moms. They just want to get rid of the costumes, so they come and drop them off.

What’s your favorite part about running En Pointe Bels?

I love seeing where the clothes go. Two years ago, I got to go to a school to hand the students tap shoes and outfits for their winter recital. It was so rewarding.

Have you faced any challenges during this process?

Once you have the materials, it’s hard figuring out who’s going to get what. Every organization is asking for different things. It’s pretty difficult to organize how we can divide items up evenly so that everybody’s satisfied.

Do you have any future plans to expand your work?

Just to continue giving. These organizations typically have two big events a year, so to supply them with what they need for their performances is our goal.

Do you have any advice for kids who want to start a similar service project?

I would say that no idea is a bad idea, no matter how silly it may sound. There are a lot of people that you won’t even realize are on board with your idea. Then, suddenly, they’re like, “That’s such a great idea!”

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.