Values
RESPECT
We meet students where they are, understand that everyone is doing their best, allow students to share by listening without judgment, have empathy for students’ emotional needs by understanding them in a holistic way.
INCLUSIVITY
All people are deserving of dignity by having their needs met. At ARO, everyone feels encouraged to share their voice. We allow students to bring their own voices and experiences to the forefront without making assumptions or applying preconceived notions.
EQUALITY
We believe that all people are creative and capable of self-expression. We believe that providing students opportunities to explore and express themselves creatively can contribute to the creation of more equitable communities.
JUSTICE
As educators, we notice the larger social structures and backdrops to students’ lives and acknowledge the influence this may have on students’ experiences. We think of the classroom as a microcosm for the outside world and notice, with sensitivity, prevailing social issues.
MEASURABLE IMPACTS
We work to gain a greater understanding of short-term, intermediate, and long-term outcomes to ensure program quality, youth satisfaction with the programs, and progress in our mission to transform the lives of youth through the healing process of art.
Young Artist Stories
"I’ve change[d] by being able to share my art to new people. I would love to come back, because the friends and art I made were one of the biggest improvements I have made."
- Artists In WonderStudio Participant
“Our child was up and dressed every single morning so excited to learn...in just two weeks, we saw her confidence grow by leaps and bounds. That is because of you! She’ll never forget this!"
- Artists in WonderCamp Parent
YOU CAN FOSTER CREATIVITY IN A YOUNG ARTIST
Every dollar you give goes directly to the development and delivery of programs that transform the lives of youth through the healing process of art. Thank you!