For every five paid programs, such as classes, we offer Emerge pledges to offer at least one completely free program targeted towards disadvantaged and/or at-risk youth.

This program is directed towards youth referred by the local court system. Once a week Emerge brings in these youth, feeds them dinner, and they spend their time working on a public art project. Lead by professional artists and assisted by social workers, these youth learn to value of their community, and what it means to give back. Our hope is to offer them a creative outlet leading to change in their lives and to instill in them pride in their community.

Emerge realizes many families are not able to afford our regularly scheduled art classes and workshop for children and youth. To open our programs to all those interested in participating we have a scholarship fund in place. Applications for scholarships are available at any time and are reviewed by the Director of Education & Outreach, the Executive Director and the education committee formed by members of our Board of Directors. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis determined by need, availability and donations.

Many children enrolled in our local schools have limited access to art classes and creative outlets. Emerge works with local teachers to begin after school art clubs in many of our local schools to serve these children. Emerge hires teachers to stay after school on a designated day once a week and assists in gathering necessary art supplies. This program is open to all children for free.