This past week, I had the privilege to interview one of directors of the non-profit arts organization Inner-City Arts. It is located in the heart of Skid Row. To date, it has been one of the most overwhelming and amazing experiences I’ve had as a UCLA student. As part of my class assignment, my group and I had to look for an organization aimed at spreading their resources to a low-income community. This organization seemed to fit the description perfectly. Unfortunately, the arts are one of the first programs that are typically cut in public education.

Growing up in my hometown, there were few art classes offered in my schools. To me, the arts represent a form of expression that can be conveyed either through paper, dance, acting or music. I love art mostly because it doesn’t only fit a special category. You express yourself through your art.

Inner-City Arts is regarded as one of the nation’s most effective arts education providers. After meeting with one of the directors of the organization, I do not question why it is regarded as such. Learning about the programs that they have established for the surrounding communities was compelling in so many ways. To start off, all the programs are FREE to everyone they serve. They have Monday through Friday programs and have also established Saturday programs for the students. Students are able to participate in music, painting, dance, etc., through an educational curriculum. It was amazing to see everything that they have established for the students. It is also so inspiring and motivating to see that such programs are established for people who might not have the same resources as others.

I encourage you to discover the beauty that is Inner-City Arts and pass on the word about this amazing establishment. I couldn’t be happier to discover such a phenomenonal and inspirational organization.