The Paint Greater Than Initiative is a community-based program that seeks to inspire, empower, and foster safety within communities through the use of art and therapeutic approaches. Our flagship, mobile, and virtual safe spaces are designed to provide individuals, families, and communities with a safe and supportive environment where they can express themselves creatively and connect with others.
Through our program, we engage local artists, mental health professionals, and community leaders to collaborate on projects that promote healing, resilience, and social cohesion. We offer a range of activities, including art classes, group therapy sessions, mindfulness training, and community events, that are designed to meet the unique needs and interests of each community we serve.
We work to remove barriers and limitations for our participants, develop prosocial behaviors and form lifelong bonds. As such, our mobile safe spaces are fully equipped with art supplies, comfortable seating, and a variety of therapeutic tools and resources, making it easy for us to bring our program directly to the communities we serve.
Our virtual safe spaces are accessible through our website and social media channels, allowing individuals to connect with us from anywhere in the world.
At the heart of our program is a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or experiences. We believe that art and therapeutic approaches have the power to transform individuals and communities, and we are dedicated to using these tools to create a brighter future. The program serves all ages. However, many of our current participants are between the ages of 3-16.
Camp POP is a youth enrichment summer day camp that helps young people hone prosocial skills and enjoy safe summer, exposure-rich programming during the most fatal season. The camp offers a variety of activities including sports, arts and crafts, music, drama, dance, and outdoor adventures. The program is designed to enhance social skills, confidence, teamwork, and creativity, while also providing a safe and supportive environment for children to learn and grow. With experienced and dedicated counselors, children are encouraged to try new things, make friends, and have fun while learning important life skills. At summer camp, children can engage in a range of activities that challenge them physically, mentally, and emotionally, helping them to develop resilience, independence, and leadership skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. Whether it's exploring nature, learning new skills, or simply having fun with friends, summer camp is an enriching and rewarding experience for children ages 4-12. The camp operates from 8am-4pm, with extended care options available upon request.
The ASPIRE mentoring and workforce development program is designed to empower young people and their families to achieve their full potential by providing them with the skills, resources, and support they need to succeed. Our program is built around three core pillars: self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and education.
Self-esteem: We believe that a strong sense of self-worth is essential for success in all areas of life. Through workshops, coaching, and mentoring, we help young people build confidence and develop a positive self-image.
Interpersonal Relationships: We recognize the importance of healthy relationships in building strong communities. Our program provides opportunities for young people to develop social skills, build positive relationships with peers and adults, and learn how to communicate effectively.
Education: We believe that education is the key to unlocking a bright future. Our program offers academic support, tutoring, and college and career readiness training to help young people succeed in school and beyond.
In addition to these core pillars, our program also includes a workforce development component. We provide job readiness training, career exploration opportunities, and internships to help young people gain the skills and experience they need to succeed in the workforce.
Our program is designed to create a positive and supportive environment where young people can thrive, develop lifelong skills, and become leaders in their communities. The program's participants range from 16-24.
POP Art Academy focuses on artistic growth through a plethora of disciplines including, but not limited to, painting, illustration, music composition and production, photography, graphic design, fashion design, creative writing, dancing/movement, and jewelry making. The Academy employs rigorous curriculums to improve artistic abilities in visual art, creative, and performing arts. The Academy accepts students of all ages and offers hybrid classes-both online and in person. Each cohort is assessed and placed in classes based on their skill-level.
The Powerverse is an art and technology program for youth aims to introduce young learners to the exciting world of art and technology through a series of engaging and interactive sessions. The program will provide an opportunity for students to explore the intersection of art and technology and learn how these two fields can be combined to create innovative and meaningful works of art. The program is hybrid and meets weekly, in person and in meta spaces. The program explores digital art, creative coding, sound art, virtual and augmented reality, robotics and physical computing. This includes web design, avatars, animations, Web3, Crypto, NFT, mechanics, podcasting, music composition and production, interactive artwork, games, installations, etc. The program is designed to support at-risk youth by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in fast-growing, sustainable, and well-paying careers in technology. We are committed to helping young people reach their fullest potential providing access to training, mentorship, and career development resources. The program's curriculum is geared toward youth and young adult, ages 8-24.
Power Pedals is a wellness club that focuses on building healthier lifestyles and promoting healing through movement. Our program is designed to help individuals of all ages and fitness levels to develop a more active and balanced lifestyle, while also promoting mental and emotional wellbeing.
Our program is centered around movement-based activities such as biking, yoga and meditation, boxing, gardening, dance, and other forms of exercise. We believe that movement is not only essential for physical health but also has a profound impact on mental and emotional wellbeing. By engaging in regular physical activity, individuals can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase their overall sense of wellbeing.
In addition to movement-based activities, we also provide resources and support for healthy eating habits, stress-management techniques, and other wellness practices. We believe that a holistic approach to wellness is essential for promoting long-term health and happiness.
We believe that everyone has the potential to live a vibrant and fulfilling life, and our program is designed to help individuals unlock their full potential.
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
― Maya Angelou.
Stephen King says that "the scariest moment is always just before you start." At Power of Paint, we encourage our students to start, despite any obstacles. We've created a journal for their guide and encourage taking risks whilst trusting the stories within their hearts. Creative writing taps into our imaginations and use imagery, drama, and narratives to amplify our voices and explore the "artistic power of language."- Columbia University. Participants learn about the various writing types, and styles in fun, creative ways.
HELP YOUR CHILD BECOME A BETTER WRITER!
Do you know a child who has been directly affected by gun violence? If yes, they could qualify for a fully paid summer camp and after school experience. We will be providing some youth who were directly impacted by gun violence with scholarships to our out-of-school programs. The scholarship fund is in honor of two very strong women who were impacted by gun violence and still managed to be great assets to their communities. They are exemplary models of resilience. The Anderson-Harrell Scholarship Fund will surely change some lives. If you know a child between 5 and 12 who has been directly impacted by gun violence who would like to attend our ten-week summer camp or after school program, please nominate them via email (help@popartacademy.org) or apply directly below
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