Houston ARTreach partners with social services organizations, juvenile probation departments and Houston school districts to bring mentors and a variety of art-related programs and services to youth at-risk. ARTreach programs are designed to inspire and motivate young people by introducing art as a positive vehicle for self-expression.

Art holds promise for children at risk

What is an “at-risk” child?
An at-risk child is in all grade levels, they may have life circumstances beyond their control, they may be yielding low grades, have excessive discipline referrals, or abundant absences. These children are at risk of academic failure, not graduating from high school, drug abuse, gang activity and violence. Today’s youth face complex challenges affecting their personal lives and future opportunities. National statistics site that youth account for 18 percent of all reported violent crime and 33 percent of all serious property crime.

How can Art programs help?
Art programs provide positive alternatives for at-risk youth. Houston ARTreach uses art programs to help participants learn how to express themselves in an appropriate non-violent manner. These skills lead to less crime. Youth often face difficult choices. The arts teach creative problem solving skills and builds self-confidence and self-discipline. Arts education is central to a youth’s individual and social development and nurtures a child’s development by:

Strengthening academic performance and communication

Teaching cooperation and team building skills

Contributing to technological competence

Fostering an appreciation for cultural and ethnic diversity

Teaching creative problem solving skills

Building self esteem and self discipline

Encouraging the ability to imagine and articulate thoughts

Teaching responsibility to complete tasks from start to finish

Increasing literacy skills

Deterring delinquent behavior and truancy problems.

Houston ARTreach is developing new programs through a partnership with URGEWORKS Studios www.urgeworks.com to bring professional artists and urban arts performers to troubled youth after school and through in school residencies to teach how to use the positive aspects of street dance, graphic design, RAP and Studio Recording to express their views of the world. Houston ARTreach programs are designed to turn youth away from the negative gang influences they may be encountering and focus their interests and talents in a safe and positive direction.

ARTreach programs rely on community support. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation today. If you are an artist, dancer or musician interested in sharing your time and talent with at- risk youth, or would like to get more involved as a mentor or volunteer, please contact Houston ARTreach director Chris Gamez at 713-885-6990. For information about Houston ARTreach and its parent organization Katy ARTreach email art.reach@earthlink.net

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