Excel Group to host talent show Thursday

One local nonprofit will host a talent show Thursday, with community members showing off their best skills.

The Excel Group, which contracts with the state to serve the behavioral health community, will host its third annual talent show at 6 p.m. at the Historic Yuma Theatre, 254 S. Main St.

The event is free and open to the public.

Talent show coordinator Alma Rivera said this year "it's going to be very special."

And with about 40 staff and performers participating, including a 15-member choir, Rivera said there's a lot to look forward to.

"People put a lot of effort to do their best for the show. They're very excited and enthusiastic."

From playing the piano, the guitar or singing to presenting arts and crafts, Rivera said there's a little bit of everything.

The event was originally intended to be for program participants and their families, Rivera said.

"Learning, practicing and displaying artistic skills is often a part of coping or recovery program for many of Excel's 3,000-plus clients. The show became so popular, and Excel's own campus was not large enough to accommodate those requesting to attend, that the event is now held in a more publicly accessible location."

When clients are participating in something such as the talent show and practicing their talents, Rivera said, it helps their self-esteem and self-confidence.

"They don't have time for a negative thought. For them, this is therapeutic."

She said when clients are doing something positive for themselves, it cheers them up.

It's also a chance for clients to show friends and family members what they've got.

Seating is limited, so Rivera said the public is encouraged to get there early.

For more information, call Rivera at 341-4124.