Strategic Focus: Cultural Literacy

Cultural Literacy Research demonstrates that engaging in creative activities is the number one driver for sparking a passion for life, learning and curiosity and has the power to change a young person’s life from one of surviving to thriving. The arts also build 21st century skills of collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving and creativity. Exposing children to the arts and a variety of cultures builds future audiences, bolsters their academic achievement, enriches their learning experiences and teaches empathy, tolerance and openness to working with others in a multicultural society. Exposure to the arts for at-risk youth decreases violence, increases ability to express emotions appropriately and leads to fewer dropouts and greater success in school. And in early childhood, art activities foster brain development, early literacy, cognitive and motor skills and social and emotional development.

We envision a valley of children inspired and strengthened by their exposure to the arts, engagement in the arts and exhibition of their creations. Our goals are to:

• Nurture their creativity and well-being
• Ignite a passion for the arts
• Foster cross cultural understanding
• Bolster academic achievement
• Build our children's 21st Century skills
• Increase sustainability and visibility of the arts

This will be accomplished by leveraging an existing network of local leaders, arts organizations, partnerships, content experts, facilities, and programs to deliver the vision and launch an annual multi-million dollar campaign to fund it.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please direct your inquiry to Joshua Russell, Director of Communications and Emerging Initiatives at jrussell@1stact.org