From Storytime to Possibility: MPDF Founder Inspires Young Readers at Hazelwood Central Middle School
Community Impact Series | Youth Literacy, Creative Education & Author Engagement
HAZELWOOD, MISSOURI | September 24, 2026
Every child has a story worth telling, a voice worth hearing, and a dream worth pursuing.
At Most Precious Dreams Foundation® (MPDF), we believe literacy is more than the ability to read words on a page. It is a pathway to imagination, confidence, self-expression, and opportunity.
On September 24, 2026, MPDF Founder and Executive Director Mahogany “DJ Mos Precious” Henderson visited Hazelwood Central Middle School to connect with students and families through storytelling, personal experiences, and her published children’s book, Maria’s Magical Music Journey.
The author visit represented another meaningful step in MPDF’s commitment to increasing community engagement and inspiring the next generation through education, creativity, and mentorship.
More Than an Author Visit: Inspiring Young Minds to Dream Bigger
For Ms. Henderson, becoming a published author was another chapter in a journey built around creativity, resilience, and believing in possibilities.
As an international DJ, entrepreneur, writer, and nonprofit founder, she understands that dreams often begin with a simple idea—and grow when someone has the courage to pursue them.
During her visit to Hazelwood Central Middle School, Henderson shared experiences from her personal and professional journey while encouraging young people to recognize their strengths and explore their interests.
Her message extended beyond reading and writing. It was about understanding that their voices have value, their creativity has purpose, and their dreams deserve attention.
Sometimes, the greatest gift we can give a young person is the opportunity to see what is possible through someone else’s journey.
One book. Endless possibilities. Maria’s Magical Music Journey encourages young readers to believe in themselves, embrace their creativity, and dream boldly—while 20% of book-sale proceeds support Most Precious Dreams Foundation®.
Maria’s Magical Music Journey: A Children’s Book With a Greater Purpose
At the center of the visit was Henderson’s children’s book, Maria’s Magical Music Journey: Believe in Yourself; Your Dreams Will Become Your Reality.
Through a story rooted in music, imagination, and self-belief, readers are encouraged to embrace their creativity and recognize the possibilities within themselves.
The book reflects Henderson’s own passion for music and her belief that young people should be encouraged to explore their talents without limitations.
But Maria’s Magical Music Journey represents more than a published work.
Twenty percent (20%) of proceeds from book sales are donated to Most Precious Dreams Foundation®, creating a connection between Henderson’s work as an author and her commitment to supporting youth development.
These contributions help support MPDF’s mission of expanding access to literacy, mentorship, leadership development, and creative educational opportunities.
Each purchase provides an opportunity to enjoy an inspiring children’s story while also supporting a greater community purpose.
Connecting Storytelling With Beats & Literacy
The Hazelwood Central Middle School author visit reflects the educational values behind MPDF’s Beats & Literacy initiative.
Beats & Literacy combines music, storytelling, rhythm, and creative expression to encourage youth literacy engagement.
The initiative is designed to introduce young people to reading in ways that connect with their interests and lived experiences.
Through culturally relevant stories, creative activities, and exposure to music and the arts, MPDF seeks to make literacy approachable, interactive, and meaningful.
A child who connects with music may discover a new interest in storytelling. A student who enjoys creative expression may begin exploring writing. A young reader inspired by a character may recognize possibilities within their own life.
These connections represent the heart of MPDF’s approach.
We want children to understand that literacy is not simply something they practice in school. It is a tool they can use to express themselves, pursue their passions, and shape their futures.
Representation Matters: Helping Youth See What’s Possible
One of the most meaningful parts of an author visit is the opportunity for young people to connect with someone who has transformed a creative idea into a published book.
Meeting an author offers a real-world example of what can happen when imagination, determination, and consistent effort come together.
Henderson’s experience as a DJ, entrepreneur, and author also introduces students to the idea that creativity can lead to multiple career pathways.
Not every child will become an author or musician. However, every child deserves opportunities to discover their interests and develop confidence in their abilities.
At MPDF, we believe exposure creates possibilities.
When young people encounter mentors, professionals, and community leaders who share their experiences, they have opportunities to expand their understanding of what their futures might hold.
Strengthening Community Connections Through Literacy
The September 24 author visit also demonstrated the importance of collaboration between schools, families, educators, nonprofit organizations, and creative professionals.
MPDF appreciates the opportunity to engage with the Hazelwood Central Middle School community and share a positive message centered on literacy, self-belief, and personal development.
Community-based learning experiences create opportunities for students and families to connect with local resources while discovering new interests.
As MPDF continues developing relationships throughout the St. Louis region, school and community partnerships remain essential to making our programs accessible.
Our vision is to expand educational enrichment experiences that help young people strengthen their communication skills, explore their creativity, and develop confidence.
Every Book Creates an Opportunity to Give Back
Literacy initiatives require more than inspiration. They need resources, consistent programming, accessible books, and meaningful community investment.
Through donations, book-related contributions, and organizational partnerships, MPDF works to strengthen its capacity to provide youth-centered programming.
Community support can help provide:
- Books and literacy enrichment materials
- Creative arts and music education resources
- Interactive storytelling and author experiences
- Youth mentorship and leadership opportunities
- School and community-based educational workshops
Our long-term goal is to help more children experience the power of literacy while developing the confidence to pursue their dreams.
Twenty percent of proceeds from sales of Maria’s Magical Music Journey are donated to MPDF to support this mission.
Partner With MPDF to Inspire the Next Generation
Imagine the possibilities when a child receives a book that inspires them, meets someone who believes in their potential, or participates in a creative experience that encourages them to explore a new interest.
These moments can become the beginning of something meaningful.
Most Precious Dreams Foundation welcomes collaboration with schools, libraries, educators, corporate sponsors, community organizations, and individuals committed to investing in youth development.
Whether through literacy programming, author visits, sponsorships, book contributions, or financial support, there are opportunities to help create more enriching experiences for young people.
Help us turn potential into possibility—one child, one book, and one dream at a time.
Most Precious Dreams Foundation®
Dream. Create. Inspire.
Learn more: https://mostpreciousdreamsfoundation.org/
Partnership and sponsorship inquiries: info@mostpreciousdreamsfoundation.org