Vision

CAW seeks to improve and enhance the lives of underserved, under-resourced New York City youth by leaving them more civically engaged and better prepared for college or career, with greater confidence in themselves and with optimism for the future. Working in underserved neighborhoods of New York City in public schools, community centers, juvenile detention facilities, parks, and libraries, CAW provides dynamic creative youth development opportunities for young people who otherwise lack access. CAW operates four key programs, serving a range of ages from 4-24, all designed to build self-confidence, unlock a love of learning, enhance creative and critical thinking, improve cooperation, leadership, public speaking, and job skills; and to deepen the relationship between art, youth, and community.

Goals

1. 1.CAW’s programming aims to not only expose New York City students to the arts, but to encourage their personal growth and their engagement with their communities.
2. 2.CAW aims to increase its impact by growing the depth and scale of partnerships with schools, local organizations, and city agencies, and by increasing the number of community members served.
3. 3.CAW aims to improve its long-term sustainability, employee retention, and capacity for expanding services through investments in its staff and by diversifying its working partnerships.