Since Network moved into our new home last August, we have been working hard to bring new programs to our community. From an expanded career services department to Senior Thursday, we’re striving to make sure that we’re offering exciting and valuable new services. One of these new programs that we’re especially proud of is our After-School Art Club. Through a partnership with Central Arts Program, we are providing a safe and inviting environment where students can learn about and create art every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. This program is beneficial to our community because it is an educational experience that can help with socialization and provides a space for kids while their parents get help during our extended hours on Thursdays.
Put the ART in SMART
Each week, Network’s After School Art Club works on a new project that gives them the opportunity to learn about art techniques and history. They start by learning about what they will be creating and the art style they will be using, and then they get to try it out. One example of this was our pointillism week! Students got to learn about the history of the art style and some of the famous painters who used this technique. They then got to try their hand at it, painting their own pointillist masterpieces. This is a fun and exciting way for students to learn a little bit more about art and try out what they learn!
Get Social!
Socialization is an important part of any child’s development, but some students may be missing out on that part of life. In this time of distance learning and social distancing, your child may not be getting the chance to socialize with their peers as they normally would. Network’s After School Art Club is a great way to remedy this problem, as it gives kids the opportunity to socialize and make friends! The program is open to all in the community regardless of if they use our other services, so there are a wide range of students in the club for your child to befriend. This program is a great chance for your child to meet people with similar interests and make new friends!
Helping After Hours
Starting in January, Network is open until 7 p.m. on Thursdays to assist those who cannot make it in during our business hours. However, many of these clients may have children who they cannot leave alone at home while they shop. The After School Art Club provides a safe and educational environment for those kids while our neighbors seek assistance. Although it is a wonderful program on its own, this convenience for the parents makes the After School Art Club an invaluable program for many families. This is just one more way that Network is working to eliminate the barriers that prevent people from getting the help they need!
Network’s After School Art Club is a social and educational experience that helps our neighbors in need to get the assistance they are seeking, but it’s also plain fun! The students enjoy meeting new friends and making masterpieces they get to take home. The program is free and open to all school-aged kids, so if you or someone you know has kids, we would love for them to join us. If you’re not sure, feel free to pop in on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday from 4 to 5 p.m. and see for yourself. We hope to see you there!