Standing on their Shoulders

An intergenerational, multicultural arts one-day event at Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, CA. Through a series of workshops and live performances, the project will provide youth and the general public an opportunity to engage with the rich cultural heritage of the Central Valley and honor the contribution of community elders. The event aims to present two $500 scholarships to three high school seniors who’s selected (by a community panel) art forms (painted, oral, sculpted, etc.) embody the theme of this event.

The Reality Store

Based upon a community project in Brooklyn, NY, this event collaborates with local businesses, utility corporations, and banks to provide an immersive experience for 150 students from a selected underserved community to “act” as consumers. Each youth will receive the equivalent of either one month salary or public service to engage with local “businesses.” Students will have the opportunity to budget: e.g. pay rent, childcare, purchase food, eat at McDonald’s, buy a car, etc. Per report, this exciting collaborative venture has proven to be empowering and life-changing, as it enables participants to engage in critical thinking about their choices; shifting from actively impulsively or emotionally to making decisions that align with their individual goals and values.