Art Start nurtures the voices, hearts and minds of New York City's underserved youth through consistent creative workshops inside homeless shelters, alternative to incarceration programs, and partnering youth agencies.

Videos from Art Start

Art Start 03:00 Performing Arts

A spoken word piece about fear, love, and realizing dreams.

Can You See Us Now?

Art Start 02:42 Youth

A music video featuring thoughts on the impact of gun violence on youths.

Art Start 02:29 Fine Arts

If music is your career path you could consider studying audio engineering, and work in the areas of sound design, sound production, and live performances.

Kissenia's Story

Art Start 02:28 Fine Arts

If photography is your career path, some industries you could consider are science, technical services, radio and television broadcasting, journalism, book publishers, motion picture, end electronic shopping.

Family Portrait Project

Art Start 05:03 Fine Arts

Art Start's Family Portrait Project uses photography and story-telling to actively shift the focus on homeless families by celebrating their strength and unity through difficult times.

Art Start 03:16 Fine Arts

Learn more about how you can participate or volunteer in Art Start's programs.

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Get Involved

Underfunded educational and arts programs have been a detriment to our city’s underserved students because they are a necessary outlet for those with difficult home lives. In New York, two out of every five children live below the poverty line, and many children endure homelessness and other family crises. Educational programs are often their only escape, which is why programs like Art Start are crucial in providing an emotional oasis with mentor-instructors offering guidance and forging spiritual fortitude.

Volunteering with Art Start is an intensive but rewarding experience. Having employed over 11,000 volunteers since their inception in 1991, these helpers are the lifeblood of the organization, as trust-filled relationships with these young participants is crucial. Learn how you can be a part of the Art Start family by donating or volunteering. Efforts are especially needed for the program’s Homeless Youth Outreach initiative, where artists can give their time to youth aged 5 - 21 to help change the life of a budding mind who needs a lifeline. Get involved with Art Start today.

Become a Youth Outreach Volunteer

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