35,000 Reasons to Celebrate
This year, children’s access to a full, creative education faced real pressure. Across our region — and across the country — the arts were being asked to justify their place. And yet, something remarkable happened.
Educators, teaching artists, partners, families — and generous friends like you — kept showing up for ALNW, because you know what we know: when the arts are woven into everyday learning, students engage more deeply, think more critically, and feel a stronger sense of belonging.
35,000 students got to make art this year -- because this community chose to invest
They created mystical creatures in clay and painted murals in glass mosaic tiles. They wrote lyrics about friendship and life cycles, regulated their emotions with thread, and sang music from cultures around the world. For some, it was the first time they'd ever truly found their voice. And that didn’t happen by accident. It happened because of collective belief, collective action, and you.
“It brought me so much joy to witness this kindergartner express himself through music and dance. For him, the arts became his entry point into English.”
— Teacher Sheila O’Leary, Quatama Elementary
Spring is a season of renewal — and this one feels especially meaningful. We’re not just celebrating what survived. We’re celebrating what’s possible when a community refuses to let go of something essential.
We will not meet this moment in isolation. It takes all of us — and right now, a gift from you helps ensure that children in our region have access to the transformative power of the arts. Not as a luxury. As a necessity.
Together, we can imagine and create new possibilities — and bring them to life. Thank you for being part of that. For the hard moments and the hopeful ones. We are so glad you’re here.
Abundantly Accessible Arts Education
The arts are essential, and a powerful tool in student achievement. By supporting Arts for Learning NW and the Right Brain program, you transform a child's learning with creativity, curiosity, and joy!
Image: Portion of painted paper collage mural made by 5th grade classes at Duniway Elementary in 2017 with Teaching Artist Sarah Ferguson
Make a Donation Today!
Become a Arts for Learning Northwest GEM when you Give Every Month!
Select your monthly amount, complete your payment information and you’re all set to make an ongoing impact for students though the arts.
- $10 a month can connect an aspiring teen designer with a professional mentor through our SH/FT Fashion Design program
- $25 a month can fund a Day of Learning professional development training to help teaching artists build a toolkit to share their art and inspire local students in classroom settings
- $80 a month can cover the cost of one classroom's arts integration at a Right Brain school.
The amount is up to you, and your monthly GEM gift will sparkle and shine for a more arts-filled future!
Donate or become a GEM above, or send your gift by mail today to:
Arts for Learning NW
8911 SE Stark St.
Portland, OR 97216
For further information, please email [email protected] or call 503-225-5900
