How do arts programs create spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and valued? What makes a youth arts program truly culture-centered, and how does this approach foster both well-being and well-becoming?

Join us for an engaging discussion on the characteristics of culture-centered, community-based youth arts (CCYA) programs and the ecosystems that support them, featuring insights from a new report by the University of Pittsburgh and the Forum for Youth Investment, commissioned by The Wallace Foundation.

In this session, we will explore:
• What it means to be culture-centered in youth arts programming
• How CCYA programs foster mattering, belonging, and well-becoming for young people
• Key characteristics of effective CCYA programs and the conditions that support them
• Practical takeaways for practitioners and ecosystem leaders
• Firsthand insights from teaching artists and program providers across different cities and art forms

The discussion will include an overview of the research, reflections from focus groups with teaching artists, and a panel conversation with practitioners leading CCYA programs.

Who should attend?
• Youth practitioners looking for actionable insights.
• Researchers and evaluators interested in examining arts based programs in the afterschool sector.
• Intermediary leaders & ecosystem builders interested in strengthening support for CCYA programs.
• Funders & policymakers exploring ways to sustain impactful youth arts initiatives.