Igniting Imaginations and Cultivating Communities

Artists Working in Education (AWE) was founded in 1998, our impact has been immense. Hundreds of public artworks have enhanced neighborhoods and tens of thousands of youth and hundreds of teaching artists have benefited from AWE’s arts outreach programs. As a part of our commitment to supporting traditionally underserved neighborhoods, we work closely with its residents and stakeholders to create authentic partnerships.

AWE is committed to equity, health and wellness. We ensure equity through high-quality arts education activities, relevant employment and professional development, and community-based public art activities. Our focus on equity targets communities in which residents are more likely to have reduced access to education and out-of-school-time educational opportunities and have limited means of transportation to access services.

Without AWE, the gap between high-quality arts education available to youth and those who don't would widen. Approximately 25% of youth participating in AWE's arts outreach programs would not have otherwise had access to hands-on art-making experiences. Without AWE, many artists would not have access to meaningful, relevant employment as teaching artists. AWE engages artists and supports their professional development by providing access to a network of creative professionals. With the help of AWE, neighborhood landscapes have been enriched with artwork that elevates the voices of the community, showcasing their strengths and priorities. Without AWE, thousands of Milwaukeeans would not be able to experience the healing power of art. The arts can have profound benefits, especially for those facing trauma and inequitable access to healthcare, education, recreation, and the arts.

With your support, we can continue to offer FREE high quality arts education to more than 6000 youth across the city of Milwaukee every year. As you give, consider giving monthly! Monthly giving is especially important as we work to scale our programming to meet the demand expressed by our community partners. Donations, no matter how large or small, are so important to us, so please donate today.

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