Manhattan Arts Center - 2021
At the core of MAC's mission, captured by the tagline "Arts for All," is the crucial provision of student scholarships. MAC's summer camp, classes, studios, and theatre programs offer diverse artistic opportunities to local youth, allowing them to engage in the visual and performing arts. These young individuals develop artistic and socioemotional abilities through creative expression, aligning with MAC's vision.
With various offerings such as music, clay, painting, drawing, and theatre/drama, students can explore their creativity across different domains and discover their unique talents and individuality. In a nurturing and compassionate environment, MAC fosters an atmosphere that values exploration, imagination, originality, and confident self-expression.
The support provided by the YES! Fund grant has been instrumental in enabling MAC to extend these opportunities to more enthusiastic young individuals, particularly those who would benefit the most. This year, numerous scholarships have been awarded, including those who have limited access to out-of-school time activities. One caregiver expressed, "With this support, [---] has found a sense of belonging and a space where she can authentically be herself. It has truly made a world of difference." Another caregiver of a Camp MAC participant shared, "[---] was initially apprehensive, but the camp turned out to be a joyful and creative experience, which had a transformative effect on [---]'s creativity and confidence even at home. It felt like magic."