The After School Arts Program (ASAP) provides access to the arts for young people who might otherwise miss out because of barriers like transportation, cost, language, or feelings of non-belonging. Through free, high-quality arts education in visual art, music, dance, drama, and more, ASAP helps kids build confidence, creativity, and life skills that prepare them for success in school and in their communities.
Thanks to a grant from Variety – the Children’s Charity, ASAP was able to purchase high-quality art supplies and equipment for its free arts programs held in schools, libraries, and community gathering spaces. Variety’s funding helps ensure these meaningful arts experiences remain accessible to every child, regardless of their circumstances.
One student impacted by this support is Ezra.
Ezra has autism, and while supports are in place for him during the school day, after-school activities have often been more difficult to access. Many programs hesitate to welcome students with unique needs once school-day support staff are no longer present, leaving children like Ezra without opportunities to participate alongside their peers.
That changed when ASAP welcomed Ezra into its free music and comic drawing classes. At first, his parents weren’t sure what to expect after previous disappointments, but ASAP created an environment where Ezra felt supported, included, and encouraged to succeed in his own way.
It’s not that Ezra has gotten kicked out of activities, adults are often concerned he won’t succeed, so he doesn’t even get the chance to try. When ASAP welcomed him into classes, they met his needs with flexibility and understanding. He got overwhelmed just one time, and they simply had him put his headphones on. His parents are so thankful for this program.
Maddy - A Community-In-Schools Coordinator
With art supplies provided through Variety’s grant support, Ezra joyfully completed five weeks of music classes and five weeks of drawing comics classes alongside his peers. ASAP’s willingness to adapt to student needs gave Ezra the opportunity to participate, strengthen his self-confidence, and practice self-regulation in a welcoming environment.
Every class reminded Ezra, and the adults around him, that success looks different for every child, and that every child deserves the chance to belong.
