Arts-Kids Program Overview

Core Program

The Arts-Kids and Arts-Teens program is an after-school youth-development program that increases motivation, builds intimacy, and creates a sense of community – and thereby improving confidence and self-expression. The core program began in Summit County in 1999. The model program is in the form of an innovative small-group setting, held weekly in local elementary and middle schools. Professional artists of different mediums connect with kids from diverse backgrounds. Together they learn, express, and create – across all boundaries. Through the process, the students discover talents and develop habits that build their confidence, develop creative thinking, listening and problem solving skills. Abilities, which are transferable to the classroom and other life activities, can aid in reducing the risk of school dropout and/or juvenile delinquency.

Ute Indian Project

This successful pilot program began in October 2008 with over 35 children and continued through the spring. Arts Kids/Arts Teens provides a creative experience of fun within a structure that includes a trained facilitator, volunteers and local artists. The experience helps the youth build community and develop life skills to become future responsible leaders and adults. The artistic experiences are based on cultural traditions and arts.
The initial sponsors for this pilot program were Running Strong for Native American Youth, the Utah Folk Arts Council, St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Diocese of Utah. In the fall 2009 the Tribe allocated funding for training of facilitators to lead groups in a network throughout the Uintah and Ouray Reservation in northeastern Utah. If you are interested in learning more about the program, please contact the office.