DMF Youth empowers underserved students through arts education and life skill development programs that build self-confidence, social awareness, resilience, and grit. Driven by the vision of an equitable education system, we work to address several needs identified among the population we serve. The areas that DMF Youth programs seek to address include:

Lack of afterschool programs

In New York City, areas of concentrated poverty have limited access to afterschool programs. The neighborhoods that we work in have higher levels of concentrated poverty in comparison to the rest of the city. Providing afterschool services in these neighborhoods is a key factor in reducing the opportunity gap that persists in our education system. Research has shown that participation in afterschool programs is imperative to the success and health of a student. More time spent in afterschool programs leads to improved overall academic achievement, reduced school absences, behavioral improvements, and a greater connection to the school.

Lack of arts programs

An arts education is another key factor when it comes to providing students with the tools they need to thrive in school and in life. A 2019 literature review on how the arts influence student learning found that art learners benefit with improved psychological well-being and physical health. The study found that giving students space for creative expression “can lower stress, improve memory, and make them feel more socially connected.” In New York City, about 20% of public schools do not offer any arts education programs. This percentage is even higher in areas of concentrated poverty. A lack of arts education further disadvantages low-income students.

Need for mental health curriculum

The traditional school day rarely addresses all of the needs of the students. While in-school curriculum focuses on academic skill building, necessary lessons on mental and emotional health are not widely taught.. Lessons relating to mental and emotional well-being are especially important for our students, who face serious challenges including poverty, low educational attainment, and parental incarceration.

DMF Youth 2021-2022 Back-to-School Campaign!Project photos

DMF Youth 2021-2022 Back-to-School Campaign!
Project photos