ELM FOUNDATION INC

Education: Throughout the year, ELM offers free after-school arts classes in 8-week sessions 4 times a year, impacting approximately 150 children annually in our community. ELM Foundation is committed to providing accessible, free art education programs for youth in our community. By filling the gaps in socio-economic needs, we provide a third of our students with their only access to structured arts education. Beyond making art education financially accessible, another goal is to address educational gaps in art within public schools and meet community needs. Sixty-three percent of parents rate current offerings as mediocre or non-existent, underscoring the urgent need for supplemental arts programs. Additionally, 27% participate to expand their childs interests in the arts, demonstrating the broader impact of our initiatives on childrens educationl and personal development.

Gallery: The Boiler, ELM Foundations gallery and exhibition space, provides equitable access for artists and promotes diversity in contemporary and community arts programming. Serving as a vibrant hub for creativity and mentorship. The Boiler supports both emerging and established artists while engaging the broader community through exhibitions, youth programs, and partnerships. In 2024, we hosted five professional and two high school exhibitions, welcoming over 1,000 visitors. These shows included four youth workshops serving more than 200 participants, offering hands-om experiences with exhibiting artists. Collaboration is central to our mission-The Boiler partnered with three nonprofit organizations to help them achieve their goals, reaching an additional 450 attendees. Art gallery programs incorporate mentorship, inspiring youth to see art as a viable career path and connecting them with creative professionals who encourage their continued artistic and educational growth.