Arts to Grow

MISSION Arts to Grow (ATG) engages children in the artistic process by providing free, highly tailored and professionally taught arts education programs to youth who have limited access to the arts. Arts to Grow (ATG) collaborates closely with schools and community groups to match performing and visual arts programs and Teaching Artists with the specific needs of each group of children. ATG serves the community and society by helping children develop their full potential through the arts. OUR PROGRAM MODEL: PROVEN IMPACT  In-depth, sequential, high quality arts learning opportunities are taught by experienced professional Teaching Artists.  Every program is customized to meet the specific and unique needs of the enrolled children.  We emphasize strong, influential relationships between students, Teaching Artists, classroom teachers, program leaders and administrators. These relationships are proven to engage children in learning, creating mentoring relationships that build self-confidence and leadership skills.  Classes are small and in-depth, averaging 12-15 students, running 8 weeks to one year and 1-2 hours for each class session.  Programs are studio-based and engage kids in creating original works of art. DEVELOPING TOMORROWS LEADERS FROM URBAN COMMUNITIES  Programs target “at-risk” urban youth with little or no access to arts education, minimal economic opportunity and daily exposure to the potential risks of crime, gang violence and substance abuse.  All classes are neighborhood based and offered during school, during existing after school, weekend and summer programs on-site at schools and community organizations within underserved communities.  Classes are free to young people of all abilities ages 5 – 22. SCOPE OF OUR SUCCESS  Launched in 2005, ATG has partnered with 14 inner city public schools and community organizations, including schools serving children and young adults with special needs. Program partners are located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Newark and Hoboken, NJ. 50 more schools and community organizations are on a waiting list.  ATG has offered 74 high quality custom programs to over 1600 children ages 5-22.  390 kids were served during the 2010-2011 school year.