THEY FIND PEACE AND EMPOWERMENT THROUGH THE PERFORMING ARTS

It's a startling fact: More than half of New York City's young people are directly exposed to violent acts. And it's true that violence breeds violence: almost all violent criminals were exposed at an early age. Kids Creative is breaking the cycle using the arts to teach a different lesson on how to create and sustain peace.

Going Into Schools Where Kids Are at Risk

Kids Creative partners with schools throughout the five boroughs to provide a variety of year-round programs, each using the creative arts to teach young people its "6 C Curriculum": Confidence, Creativity, Conflict resolution, Community, Compassion and Cookies (the fun part). Kids Creative teaches anti-bullying techniques of creative conflict resolution, as well as tolerance and appreciation for the ideas and beliefs of others. The arts help kids develop the creative, critical thinking and social skills necessary to make peace both within themselves and within society.

Younger kids in grades K-5 work with teaching artists to create original musicals from their imaginations, from story development and character creation through script and song writing, culminating in a performance for friends and families. High school students participate in similar productions, most with a specific social justice focus. The Catalog has supported many organizations that use creative approaches for getting our city's kids past the effects of violence.

Through lyrics, music, laughter and yes, cookies, Kids Creative is breaking the cycle of violence for hundreds of our city's at-risk kids. We're pleased to provide three years of funding for Kids Creative at a critical time in the organization's development.

"I am using the CD and video of my son singing and memorizing his lines to challenge the school system that claims that he cannot learn."

- ROSARIA D., PARENT