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 and Music. Programs are instructed by professional and amateur artists from 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 whom 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 2006 the center served 308 youth for 1617 visits and began offering satellite art programs at two community partner drop-in centers (Street Youth Ministries and University District Youth Center). In 2007, the center expanded programming to include theater arts performing an original work “Stupid Teenagers” in June.

The success of the Sanctuary Art Center and its programs can be directly attributed to the amazing individuals, foundations and trusts, 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.