780 Salem Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07208 | 908.469.1211
Our Programs
Afterschool Arts Institute
Many children in our community lack access to safe, supportive, and enriching environments after school. Without positive outlets, they are at risk of falling behind academically, socially, and emotionally. Too often, young people struggle to find spaces where they can explore their creativity, develop confidence, and feel a sense of belonging.
The Afterschool Arts Institute bridges this gap, creating a safe and inspiring space for over 300 students each year. During the two 12-week semesters, students receive instruction in 40 culturally relevant art forms. These are more than just classes—they are a lifeline. With Master Teaching Artists and peer mentorship, we nurture the potential of each child and empower them to thrive. In a world where children often face obstacles to personal and emotional growth, our program provides a path to self-discovery and success.
- 85% of our students want to return because they’ve found a safe and nurturing space to express themselves.
- 73% have experienced a boost in self-confidence.
- 80% feel brave enough to tackle new experiences. '
- Community Impact: This year, we engaged in 16 artist residencies, bringing transformative art experiences to over 231 students. Partnering with organizations like The Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless and New Point Specialty has been crucial in ensuring access to quality arts education.
- Target Audience: We primarily serve a diverse population, with 36% of K-12 students in Newark identifying as African American and 55% as Latinx, ensuring that underrepresented communities have access to enriching artistic experiences.
- Mental Health Support: Our programs foster emotional well-being and resilience in youth facing unprecedented challenges.
- Art Supplies and Instruments: Your contributions can replenish vital art supplies and instruments, allowing our students to explore their creativity in a safe space.
- Technology Enhancements: Your gifts can help us to upgrade our technology, providing iPads and Chromebooks that are essential for learning and engagement.
- Transportation Needs: By funding an additional staff member and vehicle, your support can help ensure that participants can safely access our programs.
- Expanded Programming: Your donations can allow us to deepen our collaborations with local organizations, creating a network of support for our students.
Your contribution is the reason for the positive impact our programs have on students — and with your help, we can keep them growing.
With your help, we can continue to provide this transformative experience. Your contribution ensures that every child in our program has the opportunity to build confidence, overcome challenges, and discover their passion.
Community Arts Institute
The Community Arts Institute empowers talented Teaching Artists to bring diverse art forms into our community, partnering with schools and juvenile centers to create customized Visiting Artist Residencies that inspire creativity and self-expression. With over 35 classical and culturally relevant art forms, our Community Arts Institute provides enriching experiences through artistic education in various settings, reaching hundreds of students each year.
Your support in our end-of-year campaign will help us continue to bring transformative artistic experiences to every child in our community. By contributing, you enable us to expand our reach and deliver essential programs that inspire the next generation of artists and leaders. Together, we can make a difference!
What Your Donations Achieve:
- Every $100 you donate helps replenish essential art instruments and supplies for our programs.Your contributions ensure safe transportation for participants, making our programs more accessible.
- With just $250, we can provide an ipad to enhance our students’ learning experience.
Youth Leadership & Mentorship
Youth Leaders, many of whom are alumni, serve as mentors to younger campers, building a cycle of empowerment and learning. These mentors gain valuable leadership skills through 200 hours of paid employment, reinforcing their role as positive role models while inspiring others.
- Diversity and Inclusivity: With 94% of students identifying as children of color, our program fosters an inclusive environment where all young people feel seen and valued. By supporting equal access to the arts, we help students develop confidence and prepare for future roles as empowered community leaders.
- STEM and Empowerment Initiatives: Our Glo Girls Empowerment program supports middle school girls in building leadership and confidence, while STEM initiatives integrate technology with the arts, allowing students to bridge creative expression and technical skills in areas like music production and graphic design.
- Focus on Mental Health and Well-Being: Arts education provides a safe space for emotional growth, helping students navigate and express their emotions in a supportive setting. By offering a creative outlet, our program aids in developing resilience and self-confidence, setting young people up for success both academically and personally.
Summer Camp
Children and youth in our community face barriers that prevent them from accessing safe and enriching summer experiences. From the lack of reliable transportation to limited resources for creative expression, these obstacles can stifle their growth, confidence, and ability to connect with peers.
The Institute of Music for Children’s Summer Camp breaks down these barriers by providing a nurturing environment for creative exploration and self-expression, serving over 250 children each summer. Here, students access high-quality arts education in over 35 art forms, including acting, dancing, singing, set design, costume design, and production, supported by professional artists, Youth Leaders, and a network of BIPOC mentors who enrich the learning experience.
Highlights of the Program:
Youth Leaders
Many young people, especially those with special needs or who are neurodiverse, face barriers to employment and integration into society. Without opportunities for skill development and professional growth, they risk being left behind.
Empowering Youth Through Leadership Development
At the Institute of Music for Children, our Youth Leadership program is designed to combat these challenges by equipping young individuals with essential skills, mentorship, and hands-on experience. Our approach focuses on:
- Leadership Development: We nurture pro-social and specialized skills in 80% of youth aged 14-22, preparing them for successful futures in both the workforce and higher education.
- Career Exposure: Participants explore various arts-related careers, helping them realize that the arts can provide viable and lucrative career paths.
- Mentorship: Our program fosters positive adult relationships by pairing youth leaders with younger students, ensuring safety, well-being, and educational success.
Workforce Training: Youth Leaders gain valuable hands-on experience while contributing to their communities and developing essential workplace skills.
Community Arts Institute
We bring our dynamic Teaching Artists and their diverse art forms into our community, partnering with schools, organizations and juvenile centers to create customized residencies that inspire creativity and self-expression. CAI combats the isolation, lack of resources, and transportation barriers that some children face by bringing the arts directly to them.
Summer Camp
At the Institute, campers learn at least eight different art forms over five weeks, for the same cost of some one week programs. In addition to providing opportunities for personal development, artistic expression and a community of support, the program culminates with the professional experience of a performance at Kean University’s Wilkins Theatre.
Afterschool Program
With the current mental health crisis soaring, young people need safe spaces where they can be themselves. The Institute is surrogate neighborhood, a community of care where students can create, explore their identities and sense of self, interact with peer mentors and experience the arts. They can select from more than 40 art forms taught by our distinguished faculty throughout the school year.
Youth Leaders
Young people in our community often struggle to find pathways to meaningful employment and social integration. The Youth Leaders program at the Institute of Music for Children is changing this narrative. By employing young leaders and offering them practical training and mentorship, we are creating a future where these youth can thrive.
