Nourishing Creativity, Fueling Futures in STEAM

K-12 STEAM education

County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit)

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Our programs are rooted in the understanding that the underrepresentation of BIPOC students in the arts & STEM reflects systemic inequities resulting in underrepresentation in high-wage jobs, highlighting the need for action. We address three key barriers: lack of visible role models, professional development, & financial resources. We break this cycle by offering impactful, culturally responsive programs. For many participants, this marks the first time their work is publicly validated, an experience that can be healing for youth who rarely see their identities reflected in traditional STEAM spaces. This partnership also addresses food insecurity & access to vital resources, helping students focus on their education. Our greatest measure of success is hearing our students become bridges to broader impact. One participant recently shared: "It means the world to me to be able to pursue my passions and ensure my mother’s efforts and years of support…will be honored after graduation."

Our program steps in and prepares our participants for the challenges ahead in careers that often overlook the need for diversity and inclusion. We work closely with the educators, mentors, and student support networks that help encourage full participation. This allows us to deliver a program that will have a lasting positive impact on students and communities as a whole. Returning school partnerships over the past years showcases the need for our programs as funding continues to limit the scope of typical student experiences. An example of our holistic approach is seen through our student arts exhibition. This opportunity has provided students with the opportunity to learn and grow as artists while serving the broader community attendees. Providing a venue outside of the typical school setting is essential to broadening the students' interaction with community members and allows us to help address food insecurity & access to vital resources. Central to our program’s mission is boosting student confidence and career readiness to be successful in high earning positions. Awards and recognition students receive during our art exhibition and other programs can be added to resumes and post-secondary education applications. This is just a small part of how we bridge the gap between BIPOC opportunities and representation in STEAM spaces.

Our programs enable students to create healthier & more empowered communities through their own success. The focus on cultural understanding & development contribute to more diverse & inclusive career opportunities throughout Los Angeles. Partnerships like those with Open Arms Pantry & Long Beach Creative Group gives Los Angeles a recipe for successful whole-student initiatives allowing for community investment in our youth. Our success addressing barriers our students face on their way to success will contribute to the growth & development of the established creative industries in Los Angeles. Turning our students’ exhibition into a traveling show through our partnerships, allows us to further champion meaningful community engagement. Through dynamic conversations with community attendees, students provide insight into their experiences to a broader community audience. This helps both students & audience members retain a full picture of how they fit together in their community.