By: Richard L. Smith
A potent nonprofit partnership between STEAM URBAN and GlassRoots Newark Glass Art Center brought joy and creativity to families on Saturday morning as they gathered for a successful art of glass-making session.
I had a chance to visit a session held at Harriet Tubman Square which sits on the north end of Newark between Washington and Broad Streets. It's bordered by the Newark Museum of Art and Newark Public Library and just a short walk to Halsey Street shopping and dining. I witnessed the enthusiastic participation of parents and children alike.
Chief Executive Officer Fallon Davis of STEAM URBAN expressed they/them delight: "I've been building a rapport with the community by providing free activities for families."
The organization's commitment to serving the community and fostering educational experiences was evident during the event.
We visited one of the sessions and observed approximately two dozen children and their parents attend the Saturday program, where CEO Davis and STEAM URBAN collaborated with GlassRoots, an organization located on Bleeker Street in Newak's Art District.
GlassRoots has a mission to enhance the creative and economic vitality of Greater Newark, with a specific focus on under-served youth and young adults, by introducing them to the transformative power of the glass art experience, according to a statement on their website.
Founded in 2001, GlassRoots has positively impacted tens of thousands of young individuals in the Greater Newark area.
Their services include core Youth Entrepreneurship programs, engaging student field trips, and public art classes encouraging artistic expression.
STEAM URBAN's programming, which aims to educate students on diverse opportunities for their future, provides a platform for self-expression and fosters a creative and innovative learning environment, is offered free of charge. The organization ensures that its programming remains consistent, accessible, and available year-round, taught by dedicated Radical Educators who are experts in their respective fields.
The Saturday morning event showcased the power of partnerships between nonprofit organizations and the positive impact they can have on the community.
Families had the opportunity to learn and engage in the art of glass making, exploring their creativity and building lasting memories.
Both STEAM URBAN and GlassRoots are committed to empowering and inspiring youth, providing them with valuable skills and experiences that broaden their horizons.
By fostering a love for the arts and encouraging entrepreneurial thinking, these organizations are nurturing Newark's next generation of creative and innovative leaders.
We've found that events like these and the dedication of CEO Davis to bring free arts programming around the region contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of Newark and offer families an opportunity to bond, learn and explore new artistic avenues together.
The success of Saturday's event is a testament to the importance of community partnerships and the positive outcomes they can achieve.
