DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Bringing arts into high needs communities is a fundamental part of community development. Within the highly diverse, high need communities of Toronto, art can be a bridge between cultures that removes barriers, and challenges prejudice. AFCY’s programs facilitate such opportunities by involving the communities it serves, and more specifically the children and youth, in deciding what message they want to convey through their art-making. Another one of AFCY’s roles is to raise each community’s consciousness of the value that the arts can bring to developing youth potential and community spirit. AFCY is seen as a leader in the field of bringing quality artistic experiences to high need communities.

I am frequently consulted and asked to speak and serve on panels, to help others in the field understand best practices when working in underserved neighbourhoods. I have been invited to become a member of several community organizations including the JVS Youth Advisory Committee, the York Youth Coalition, the O’Connor Community Focus and the Trethewey Club at Martha Eaton Way. Through these committees, we access new opportunities to reach new participants and community partners in schools and on the street level.

AFCY celebrates the artwork of marginalized young people. AFCY programs provide incredible opportunities for young people to deepen their experiences and build new audiences for their work. This year AFCY has cultivated new intergenerational programming, which offers meaningful arts experiences by bringing youth and seniors together to make art.

Children and youth ranging in age from 3 to 29 participate in AFCY programs. Adults also participate in AFCY programs, including teachers, teacher aids, principals and community workers. Seniors participate in planned intergenerational art activities such as our Meals on Wheels Community Sharing Program. In many cases, family members and community passersby become active program participants. For example, at a culminating dance performance at a shopping mall, the shoppers put their bags down and become active audience members. All populations mentioned either live, work or attend school in the communities with which AFCY works. Many of our audience members and/or participants are culturally diverse and new to Canada.

- Julie Frost, Executive & Artistic Director