Youth Arts Program Reaches Record Enrollment of 1,200 Students

The Meridian Arts Foundation's Youth Arts Program has reached record enrollment, with 1,200 students ages 6-18 participating in after-school and summer arts classes across the region.

Program Growth

• 42% increase in enrollment over the past three years
• Expanded to 8 school sites and 3 community centers
• Added digital art, filmmaking, and graphic design courses
• 100% of students receive full or partial scholarships

Student Achievements

Youth program participants have won 15 regional art awards this year, and three students have been accepted to prestigious summer arts intensives at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and CalArts.

"Seeing these young artists grow in confidence and skill is the most rewarding part of our work," said Youth Programs Director Maria Gonzalez.