Allowing young people to express themselves through art is a magical opportunity, and YouthZone is excited to announce that the organization has recently received a significant grant from the Embrey Family Foundation for an exciting new art project in Rifle.

 

Starting in June, 10 to 15 youth in Rifle and Parachute will begin working with 2 to 3 local artists.  The kids will be provided the opportunity to create a community art piece that expresses social issues that are near to their hearts, and the finished product will be displayed within the City of Rifle.

 

"This is an amazing opportunity for kids to fully express themselves through art," said YouthZone's Lori Mueller.  "This program will not only engage them fully in the artistic process, but will empower them to have a strong voice in the project."

 

Of the youth selected, some have experience in art, while others do not. This unique balance will provide for an interesting perspective on the project, while also allowing for mentoring relationships to blossom.

 

The Embrey Family Foundation is dedicated to supporting organizations that focus on human rights, social justice and community enrichment.  The organization believes in the ability of the arts to strengthen and enhance the well-being of communities, as well as individuals. 

 

"The Embrey Family Foundation likes to partner with non-profit organizations on projects that will have a positive impact on the people they serve," said Gayle Embrey, Vice President of the Embrey Family Foundation.  "We chose to work with YouthZone on this project because of the success of a prior partnership, as well as their proven record of providing positive and much needed opportunities for youth in the Roaring Fork and Grand River Valleys.  We know that with YouthZone running the program, teens will be given a potentially life-changing experience that the community of Rifle can appreciate and support."

 

Please stay tuned for pictures, as the project unfolds in the weeks to come, that will be shared on Facebook and in the Newsletter!