Our Mission
FutureSelf invites transformation through the Arts

FutureSelf believes that self-expression and the skills that are taught through the creative process equal power and opportunity. The multi-faceted vision of FutureSelf provides educational experiences in the arts and entrepreneurship to youth in the Pikes Peak region.

FutureSelf provides:

• Artistic experiences and education to new, young audiences and practitioners;
• A safe meaningful place where they are respected for their contributions and develop mentoring relationships;
• An opportunity to have a voice through exhibitions, commercial services and public presentations;
• Youthful vision and aesthetics on the public face of the Pikes Peak region;
• The respect and responsibility of paid employment that promotes self-esteem and financial accountability.

While the goals remain stable, methods of reaching them are constantly evolving.

Objective

FutureSelf provides life changing art workshops and job-training in entrepreneurial creative fields to low-income, under-served youth (ages 12 to 24). Our free to minimal-charge programs develop relevant work, communication and conflict-management skills for youth to employ every day in the real world.

FutureSelf utilizes creative self-expression to provide young people with the tools they need to be successful, community-minded citizens who choose to pursue positive, productive lifestyles.

Despite mounting evidence that immersion in the arts is the most effective means of reaching at-risk youth, FutureSelf is the only program of its kind in the Pikes Peak region.  The enthusiasm with which administrators, therapists, and staff working with at-risk youth have greeted FutureSelf speaks volumes about the
need we address.

Youth and the Arts

Seven separate acedemic studies reveal that youth involvement in the arts:
• Reduces Truancy
• Reduces juvenile crime and violence
• Improves academic performance
• Builds critical communication, self discipline and problem solving skills
• Connects students to themselves and each other

Our Successes           

2001 - Colorado Springs Assets for Young Community Builder nomination

2002 - Pikes Peak Arts Council: Arts Business Education Award

2003 – Independence Community Fund Award

2004 - ARTernatives: Art, Youth Services, & Education in Dialogue for our Community – FutureSelf initiated conference

2005 - Leadership Pikes Peak project benefits FutureSelf’s ArtWorx! program; Arts, Business Education Consortium Award for Ongoing Support of the Arts

2006 - FutureSelf Annual Celebration Art Show nominated “Best Art Exhibition of the Year” by Pikes Peak Arts Council

2007 – Arts, Business, Education Consortium Award “Best New Project” for Stream of Conscience; Kathy Loo awards FutureSelf a portion of her El Pomar Award for Excellence

2008 – FutureSelf nominated for El Pomar’s Award for Excellence