By Tracey Hartmann
Multipurpose out-of-school time (OST) organizations partner with families to support children’s needs and gather input on programming. These organizations also collaborate with community groups to access resources, enrich content, and bolster sustainability.
But because partnerships may not focus on arts programming or be inclusive of community arts organizations, arts programs at multipurpose OST organizations often miss out on opportunities for youth recognition, artistic growth, and program sustainability that deeper, more diverse partnerships can unlock. The community and family partnerships necessary for arts programming at these organizations may look different than for other programs.
How can multipurpose OST organizations strategically engage key stakeholders to build networks of support for both youth arts programs?
Research from The Youth Arts Initiative (YAI), funded by The Wallace Foundation and implemented by Boys & Girls Clubs of America, reveals that infusing youth voice and leadership into arts programs requires intentional design, organizational commitment, and a willingness to rethink long-standing practices. This research codified key practices for high-quality arts programs into 10 Principles for High-Quality Arts Programs.
Research for Action and McClanahan Associates served as the research partners for YAI. Drawing from our learnings, we are publishing mini-briefs that explore each of the 10 Principles and offer actionable, practical strategies to implement youth arts programs in multipurpose OST settings.
In this mini-brief, we focus on Principle 9: Stakeholder Engagement
Stay tuned for the next mini-brief in our series!