SKETCH

Contact: Phyllis Novak 

http://www.sketch.ca/home.html

SKETCH is engaged in work with street-involved young people, those who are homeless and those at risk of being homeless. The intention is to offer a safe space for expression and creative engagement in community life. Homelessness and poverty require innovative responses. Every person carries stories, perspectives and abilities that can effect personal and social change ... We are all a part of making history regardless of what our life situations indicate ... Street involved and homeless youth seek alternatives to traditional forms of education, therapy and skill building. Working in the arts increases self-esteem, strengthens resilience and invigorates a desire to learn more ... A sense of voice in community elicits civic participation and reduces isolation. We celebrate the creativity, resilience and diversity of youth who live homeless and see them as key contributors to culture and society.

Through arts based learning young people are able to build self-confidence and learn the power of their own voices within a context of community engagement.  The works they create have the potential for igniting social change. Communication skills are explored. Leadership opportunities are provided through offering the option to design workshops, implement programs, and take part in evaluation and governance. 

Youth Entrepreneurship through the arts can be a way to earn income and a context to explore economic literacy...Youth entrepreneurs are provided opportunities to focus on computer or technical skills; accounting/financial and business skills; marketing and sales; people or interpersonal and communication skills; and organization and project management. Job readiness projects encourage collaboration and verbal and visual communication.