About Sanctuary Art Center

The Sanctuary Art Center is a non-profit art studio serving homeless youth and young adults ages 13-25. The center operates five days a week and offers programs in Visual Arts, Theater, Music and Youth Employment. Programs are instructed by professional and amateur artists from the local community. The focus of our instruction is on creating meaningful relationships with the youth we serve as they are guided through the art making process. Most of the youth who participate in our programs have experienced significant mental and or physical trauma. The programs we offer give youth an outlet for creative expression by which they can begin to create safety and meaning back into their lives.

The center was established in 1999 through the vision of Deacon Mary Shehane who saw an opportunity to connect with disenfranchised youth in a positive and meaningful way. One morning a week youth who were sleeping in doorways, dumpsters and local parks were invited inside to get warm, eat food and create art. In 2003 Sanctuary Art Center was granted status as a tax exempt 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization. Since that time the center has grown in both size and scope. In 2008 the center served 397 youth for 3,235 visits and began offering programs in youth employment. In 2009 the art center will continue to provide innovative opportunities for our youth to find hope and fulfillment through the creative process.

The success of the Sanctuary Art Center and its programs can be directly attributed to the amazing individuals, foundations and community partners who have supported us over the years. Our philosophy of youth work centers around building and nourishing long term relationships with the youth we serve. The same can be said of how we relate to our community of supporters. If you are interested in sharing your unique talents with us as a volunteer, board member or donor please click on the volunteer/donate button(s) at the top of the page for more information.