Impact Grant: Old Town Artisan Studios
LA QUINTA, Calif. — News Channel 3 and the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation have awarded a $30,000 Impact Grant to Old Town Artisan Studios in La Quinta, helping the nonprofit expand arts education opportunities for underserved children throughout the Coachella Valley.
From pottery wheels to colorful glass creations, creativity is always taking shape at Old Town Artisan Studios. The nonprofit offers hands-on art classes that give people of all ages and abilities opportunities to explore their imaginations, develop new skills and express themselves.
"We want to make sure there's accessible arts education for anyone, regardless of your age, ability or financial background," said Andy Taylor, director of community engagement at Old Town Artisan Studios.
But the organization's mission extends far beyond the walls of its La Quinta studios.
Through its youth outreach programs, professional instructors bring arts education directly to schools, Boys & Girls Clubs and other community organizations throughout the valley.
From painting and ceramics to mixed media and other creative projects, the classes open up a world of possibilities for children who might not otherwise have access to arts education.
"It makes an incredible difference. It's something that's pretty amazing to see," Taylor said.
According to Old Town Artisan Studios, many of the children it serves come from low-income families with limited access to arts education. As demand for its programs continues to grow, so do the waiting lists at some of its partner locations.
To help meet that growing need, News Channel 3 and the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation presented the nonprofit with a $30,000 Impact Grant on Monday, October 26.
The funding will help Old Town Artisan Studios expand its youth outreach programs by supporting the purchase of art supplies, equipment and transportation needed to bring classes directly into more communities.
The grant will also help the nonprofit strengthen partnerships with schools and other organizations, reaching children who might otherwise miss out on creative learning experiences.
"This grant today is amazing. It's really going to help us quite a bit," said Matt Johnson, treasurer of Old Town Artisan Studios.
The goal is to help more young people discover their creativity, build confidence and experience the joy of making something of their own.
"It's going to make a huge difference, and we're all very excited and very grateful for the opportunity to keep showing children that they can be artists and help them create their art," Taylor said.
Old Town Artisan Studios estimates the funding could help it reach an additional 150 to 250 underserved children across the Coachella Valley.
For more information about Old Town Artisan Studios, its programs and ways to get involved, visit oldtownartisanstudios.org.
