In times of crisis and scarcity, when families are struggling to put food on the table and keep a roof over their children’s heads, arts education can seem like a luxury.
When young people are growing up amid uncertainty, they need more than academics alone. They need opportunities to build confidence, develop resilience, connect with their peers, and discover their own voices. Arts education provides those opportunities. As noted in this study, it also gives young people a chance not just to express themselves, but to show their full humanity and creativity to the world.
That makes afterschool programs like the ones Educational Alliance runs in our community schools more important than ever.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to see the impact of the arts firsthand at two showcases featuring our afterschool students: an art gallery and a dance performance.
Dance to Unite is a unique program that teaches social-emotional skills alongside dance. Students learn how to be part of a community, building friendships through values like kindness, listening, and respect. The dancing was wonderful, but what stayed with me was the sense of belonging on display. The audience’s energy was electric as families cheered on the young performers. (You can watch a video clip from the performance here.)
The art show, Young Voices Through Art, gives elementary and middle school students the chance to collaborate across grade levels with support from local artists. This year’s projects centered on myths and legends, showcasing both imagination and teamwork.
As with Dance to Unite, students invite their families to attend. These moments are powerful. Many of the families we serve are facing tremendous challenges. Some are experiencing homelessness. Some are navigating a new language and culture. For parents and caregivers carrying those burdens, seeing their child stand proudly beside a work of art or perform confidently on stage is more than a celebration—it is a reminder of what is possible.
I recently spoke with two of our afterschool program coordinators, LuCrecia Francis and Tiffanie Gorris, who oversee Young Voices Through Art. In the video above, they share how the program helps students flourish and why it makes such a meaningful difference for the community.
Best,
Rich Baum
President & CEO, Educational Alliance