JumpStArts is an artists in residency program for probation, foster and at-risk youth. The program is ongoing and held multiple times per week at the Alliance for Community Transformations’ Ethos Youth Center. The program supports a growing body of academic research indicating that exposing youth to art promotes emotional intelligence, a greater sense of self-worth, and critical thinking skills.
Current Programming
Music with Ava Burns
In late 2022, the Arts Council installed an electronic drum kit, bass, guitars and ukuleles at the Ethos Youth Center. This equipment is available for young people to explore, play and jam with each other, guided by arts council teaching artists during weekly drop-in sessions. One afternoon each week, they can sign up for more focused, individual lessons tailored to their specific needs, skills and interests. These lessons are available on Thursdays each week and focus on unleashing creative potential and collaboration with other musicians. Our goal is to teach students not only to play their instrument, but also to use music to express themselves and build community.
Sewing with Clay River
In collaboration with the Mariposa Family Resource Center, Ethos Youth Center hosts a fully equipped sewing room with multiple sewing machines. Wednesdays and Fridays, 1-5pm, October – November 2023, teaching artist Clay River, will hosts drop-in sewing workshops with teens. Participants can repair their own clothes, create new ones or work on special projects with instruction from Clay and Ethos staff.
For many participants, art production and the learning process become avenues for personal narrative and expression. The following statement is from a student during the metalworking and jewelry-making residency with artist Jackie Baxton.
Support for this program comes from Mariposa County Human Services Agency, the Mariposa County Depart of Probation, the California Arts Council’s JumpStArts grant program, the Sierra Health Foundation’s Elevate Youth program
