Why We Do What We Do
Every morning, when I first walk into the hall of Youngstown, I am greeted by the motivational quote written on the sign-in board in the hall. I start the day with a little inspiration. Courtesy of the teaching staff at Southwest Interagency Academy, the alternative high school based here, students are welcomed to school by the motivational quotes encouraging them to seize the day, be present, or 
overcome obstacles with creative thinking. It’s a reminder of their bright future. It really puts it in perspective and reminds me why we do what we do here at Youngstown.
This simple routine of reading the “daily quote” reinforces Youngstown’s unified mission to support the youth in the community.
Throughout the year, Youngstown hosts youth oriented programs. We place the development of young people at the center of all we do. At the intersection of art and education, Youngstown partners with organizations like ArtsCorps, Nature Consortium, the Service Board, Reel Grrls, and Totem Star. They all share the common goal: to increase opportunities and the development of young people in our community.
As the school year comes to an end, we prepare to move on to the next phase of growth. We are so excited about all the opportunities we have to interact with these young minds through programming.
This summer we welcome back Girls Rock Math, a hands on math camp for girls in the 1st through 6th grade. Our partners at Nature Consortium will also be hosting a series of summer programs in West Seattle. Their EcoARTS Summer Camp will foster a connection between art and nature for youth ages 5 to 12.
Our halls will be filled with a rainbow of sounds.
Kelli Corrado and Ivory Smith will host a song writing camp for students of all ages. During this week long class, students will have the chance to learn different techniques for composing music and lyrics.
We are also thrilled to be the first Seattle home to Queer Rock Camp. QRC is a weeklong camp for queer, gender variant, gender non-conforming and allied youth ages 12- 21. The group empowers youth to build community through music and self-expression.
We have the unique privilege to be supporting programs that offer a strong platform and safe haven to host conversations about art and culture. Young people in our community are faced with a number of challenges that make it tough for them to succeed. Our vision is for Youngstown to be a resource for their development. We provide continuous and accessible tools and the stimuli necessary for their emotional, creative, intellectual and cultural growth.
Given the right support, love and encouragement they can transform.
Let the inspiration begin.