THE ARTS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

For several decades, Theatre Of Hearts/Youth First has been educating youth throughout Los Angeles County and found that youngsters are more responsive to their studies in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) when involved in arts workshops. The process of engaging young students in the arts through performing, conceptualizing, and creating works of art not only inspires them to seek more knowledge and gain self-confidence, it also teaches them practical skills and serves as a foundation for great academic and personal achievement.

In addition to increased mastery of artistic skills and improved overall academic performance, Youth First Artist-In-Residence participants develop life skills specifically known to enhance the ability to choose nonviolent conflict resolution such as: positive expression, active listening, public speaking, creative problem solving, teamwork, and cooperation. TOHYF programming is also focused on tolerance and intercultural understanding.

TOHYF’s goal is to foster an understanding and appreciation for the transformative power of the arts by focusing on student learning in art form techniques, increased student understanding of career opportunities in the arts, and support for student accomplishments by peers, parents, and the comunity.