Many individuals and families residing in socially-disadvantaged communities, specifically the lower Mon Valley area (Duquesne, McKeesport, Clairton), have been riddled with violence, generational poverty, a lack of education, poor access to transportation, under employment, and more. Unfortunately, many of these critical issues are generational in scope. We have learned that “where” people live deeply impacts “how” people live. Residential proximity in relationship to socio-economics impacts individuals and families’ well-being and even their worldview. Throughout the City of Pittsburgh, there are a myriad of rich and meaningful community agencies and programs that provide services to address the critical issues of socially disadvantaged individuals and families. However, accessibility related to admission price, and proximity for these programs are particularly limited for those indigenous to economically disadvantaged communities. C-clear seeks to change that.

Specifically, C-clear will provide training programs surrounding multi-media arts including photography, video, silk-screening, robotics, and Gigapan technology, as well as entrepreneurial initiatives for youth and adults right in their own community. C-clear programs provide free and accessible exposure, and learning opportunities to support and strengthen whole family. We plan to give aspiring entrepreneurs and local artists a platform to develop their products, create job opportunities, and strengthen the community, as well as the local economy.