Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Wallace Foundation share an interest in providing access to high quality arts programming for youth.

Expanding Access to the Arts

Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Wallace Foundation have a multi-year partnership to expand arts learning opportunities for children and teens through the Youth Arts Initiative. Urban Clubs are testing innovative high-quality arts programming by applying evidence-based success principles which include hiring professional practicing teaching artists, building high quality studio spaces and acquiring state of the art technology. Club members that participate in the Youth Arts Initiative report higher levels of engagement and artistic skills which enhances academic performance and the development of vital skills needed for graduation.

Why the Arts are important.

• Did you know? Participating in the arts makes you more likely to succeed in everything from learning to life.
• A recent survey showed only 13% of students take an arts class outside of school.
• Unlike your standard arts & crafts, the new Youth Arts Initiative gives teens the chance to learn an art form from professional artists.
• Express yourself! Art isn’t some museum relic. It’s alive, and it’s you. Discover new ways to share your voice by learning from the pros.
• Our Youth Arts Initiative classes teach self-expression in friendly, creative spaces and introduce solid skills that can carry you into many fun-filled careers.