Larry and Joyce Mims organized Mims Kids, Inc. in 1994. The mission of the organization is to expose youth ages 5-18 to the arts, to broaden their horizons through travel, to help youth develop an appreciation for the cultural differences that exists in the world and to enhance their self-esteem through participation in the arts. The organization was incorporated in 1998 and acquired 501©(3) status in 1999. 

 

From 1994-1996 Mims Kids operated a small program out of the home of Larry and Joyce Mims that focused on taking small groups of youth to area arts events and attractions. In 1997 and 1998, Mims Kids collaborated with PLIGHT, Inc. to provide an after school arts enrichment program for ten (10) alternative school youth four (4) days a week. The program provided hands-on instruction in several art forms, with local artists serving as volunteer instructors. 

 

From 2002- to present, Mims Kids has conducted afterschool life skills training for students aged 5-17 once a week during the school year. The students are provided instruction in Career Exploration, Conflict Resolution, Employment Skills, Public Speaking, Etiquette, and other Life Skills.