Danielle Ribeiro from Great.com interviewed Sketch Working Arts as part of their ‘Great.com Talks With…’ podcast. This series is an antidote to negative news stories that aims to shed light on organizations and experts whose work is making a positive impact on the world.
As a society, we should all strive to make a difference in the lives of those around us, especially for the most vulnerable among us, like children in need. One charity that has been making a difference in the lives of children for over 25 years is Sketch. Through art, performance, and outreach, Sketch empowers marginalized youth to find their voice and pursue their dreams. In this article, Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony talked to Great.com about the impact Sketch is making in our community.
Sketch was founded in 1996 with the mission of providing young people in need with access to the arts. Our programs are centered on youth and focus on providing them with opportunities to develop their creativity, increase their self-esteem, and build new skills. Whether it’s visual art, music, or theatre, Sketch’s programs allow youth to find their passion and explore their potential. Since its inception, Sketch has served over 10,000 young people in need, making a difference in the lives of many.
One of the unique things about Sketch is our approach to promoting a culture of inclusivity and diversity. Sketch recognizes that the youth we serve come from diverse backgrounds and have different experiences. As such, we strive to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone. Sketch’s programs are designed to provide youth with a platform to share their stories and perspectives, and to learn about the experiences of others. This approach allows youth to feel valued, heard, and respected.
Sketch’s work goes beyond just providing access to the arts. Through our outreach programs, we work with community partners to provide wrap-around services to young people in need. We help youth develop life and employability skills, connect them with mentors, and provide access to resources and services that can help improve their quality of life. By providing these services, Sketch ensures that the youth they serve have the support they need to thrive.
Sketch shows what can be achieved when we invest in the potential of young people. By providing access to the arts and support services, we are making a significant difference in the lives of many young people. The work Sketch does is a shining example of how we can all make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. So, let’s all find ways to empower young people to reach their full potential.
Great.com is an organization aimed at solving the world’s most dire problem — global climate change. Starting in New Jersey, their mission is to take money from an otherwise harmful and greedy industry (online casinos) and move it towards a positive and good cause (solving the climate crisis). In addition to directly donating 100% of the revenue they earn in the casino industry, they also launch and manage fundraising campaigns to persuade casino entrepreneurs to donate. So far, they’ve generated over $2 million to climate research through their own donations and proceeds from their fundraising initiatives.
For over 27 years, SKETCH Working Arts has been committed to fostering a safe and inspiring space where young people can explore their creativity, develop their skills, and find their voice.
SKETCH is at a critical juncture. We are facing significant financial challenges that have led us to make difficult but necessary decisions, including reducing our operations and staff.
We are now partnering with community artists who will be in the space soon to open the doors to the SKETCH community! Stay tuned to our social media for announcements on upcoming sessions and further updates. Be sure to follow us @sketchtoronto.
Visit our website at www.sketch.ca/donate/ to make a one-time or recurring donation. Gifts of $100, $50 or even $20 can make a real difference and will receive a tax receipt.
Together, we can reset SKETCH Working Arts for a future where we continue to empower young people through the arts, with a renewed commitment to sustainability and impact.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
Sincerely,Board of DirectorsSKETCH Working Arts