Susie and Dale Henn have always been intentional about how they spend their time, talent, and resources. For the retired couple, charitable giving is not simply about making a donation. It is about investing in their community.
Their connection to The St. Louis Children's Choirs began through a friendship with former Artistic Director Barbara Berner. Over the years, what started as an appreciation for the organization grew into a deep commitment to its mission. Today, Dale serves on the Choirs' Board of Directors and Chairs the Governance Committee. Additionally, their granddaughter, Hannah, is now a singer in Music Makers.
A few years ago, Susie learned about the Rise Up! Club, The St. Louis Children's Choirs' monthly giving program. While the program offers donors a simple way to make ongoing contributions, Susie immediately saw something more meaningful. What stood out to her was that a small donation each month could help provide tuition assistance for a student for an entire year. She felt it was easy to decide to make that possible considering the life-changing experience a child can have through the Choirs.
For the Henns, supporting tuition assistance is especially important because they believe every child should have access to the opportunities the Choirs provide, regardless of financial circumstances. "Money shouldn't be a reason for a child to miss out on the Choir experience," Dale said.
The couple appreciates that monthly giving allows them to make a significant impact in a way that fits naturally into a household budget. "Giving on a monthly basis makes it an easy decision." Dale explained. "Compared to many other things we pay for each month, the value is tremendous. The impact on a student's life is so meaningful."
For Dale and Susie, that impact extends far beyond music education. They have seen firsthand how participation in the Choirs helps shape young people into confident, capable adults. "Being part of the Choirs is a rich experience," Dale said. "It's life-changing. Students learn much more than music. They develop life skills, build confidence, and make lifelong friends."
Their decision to join the Rise Up! Club reflects a broader commitment to being active members of the Choir community. "We are intentionally part of the Choir community," Dale said. "We have a strong desire to support our community, and the Rise Up! Club is a meaningful way for us to do that."
For families, donors, and supporters who believe every child should have the chance to experience the friendships, growth, and artistic excellence found at The St. Louis Children's Choirs, the Henns offer a simple message: small gifts can make a lasting difference.
By joining the Rise Up! Club, monthly donors help provide dependable support for scholarships, tuition assistance, and the programs that allow young singers to flourish. Together, these recurring gifts ensure that more children can experience the confidence, belonging, and joy that come from being part of The St. Louis Children's Choirs.
To learn more about the Rise Up! Club or become a monthly donor, visit: https://www.slccsing.org/giving-campaigns/riseup-giving-club
