ART PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO INSPIRE.

our programs FILL A CRITICAL GAP IN child welfare services by exposing NYC children in foster care to the transformative power of the arts.

cultural excursions

Introducing children to the vibrant cultural arts scene in NYC.

arts scholarships

Enrolling children in a formal arts education.

CREATIVE ARTS WORKSHOPS

Bringing hands-on art programs directly to children living in residential foster care.

cultural excursions

Bringing children to cultural arts activities including museums, dance, and musical performances at arts venues and institutions throughout New York City.

  • For many, these excursions are the first encounter with cultural arts, sparking newfound passion and aspirations.

  • Excursions include interactive discussions with cultural institution leaders or performers – ranging from Metropolitan Museum curators to Ballet Hispanico dancers – enhancing appreciation and understanding of the arts.

  • Cultural Excursions are bonding opportunities for our children, leaders, and volunteers. Shared meals following each outing provide a space for meaningful conversations, building deeper relationships, and creating a supportive and accepting community.

  • An Cultural Excursion offers an initial opportunity for our team to create an ongoing plan to support a child based on an expressed interest.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

American Museum of Natural History

Blue Note Jazz Club

Broadway

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Cultural excursions INCLUDE Visits TO:

Metropolitan Opera House

New Victory Theater

Radio City Music Hall

The Public

Whitney Museum of American Art

arts scholarships

Enrolling children and young adults in formal arts study based upon an interest and/or talent in a particular art form.

  • Access to leading programs and opportunities for artistic exploration and study, opening doors to learning experiences and professional networks that might have otherwise been out of reach.

  • Students gain confidence in their artistic talents, interact with positive and inspirational role models in instructors and school administrators, and develop meaningful friendships with peers who share their passion and skills.

  • Our scholarships cover a range of disciplines, from costume design to acting and digital arts, at renowned institutions including Harlem School of the Arts, The Guggenheim Museum, and the Metropolitan Opera.

  • Recipients of Arts Scholarships also participate in our Cultural Excursions and Creative Arts Workshop Programs.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Center

Bloomingdale School of Music

Creatively Wild Art Studio

Destined 2 Dance

Scholarships include study at the following cultural institutions:

Harlem School Of The Arts

Ifetayo Cultural Arts Academy

Lana’s Gymnastics Club

Mark Morris Dance Center

New York Sewing Center

School Of American Ballet

The Barrow Group

Third Street Music School

"The Arts Scholarship program has been nothing less than transformative. Offering classes to help youth blossom, as the youth become good at something they care about, noticing that someone cares enough about them as individuals to do something special for them.”

William Weisberg, Executive Director, Forestdale, Inc.

CREATIVE arts workshops

Bringing the arts directly to children in residential foster care with instruction in a wide range of arts forms.

  • An opportunity for youth to express their creativity, channel their energy, and create a work of art they can take pride in.

  • Each workshop is designed and led by clinically trained art therapists and professional teaching artists, ensuring high-quality and supportive learning experience.

  • We offer Creative Arts workshops in various art forms, including art, music, creative writing, jewelry design, dance, photography, and podcast-making. Many workshops are structured as part of a series, addressing specific needs like building empathy and peer support.

  • Creative Arts Workshops are often a gateway to future involvement in our programs and tailored opportunities.

CREATIVE ARTS WORKSHOPS INCLUDE:

Naked Angels 3T Writing Workshop at Good Shepherd Services, Chelsea Foyer, and SCO Close to Home Residence

Voice and Chorus at Good Shepherd Services, Marian Hall

Wellness Tea Party at Good Shepherd Services, Transitions Program

Art Workshops at Abbott House in the Bronx

Creative Storytime in the Nursery at ACS Childrens Center

Dance at JCCA/Pleasantville

PROGRAM INQUIRIES