Boston is expanding arts education and scholarship opportunities for youth. Mayor Wu launched Boston Center for Youth and Families (BCYF) Creates, investing in free arts programs at Boston Centers for Youth & Families for ages 8-14. This initiative, part of the 'Connect, Learn, Explore' commitment, offers classes in 14 community centers, aiming to engage youth not currently connected to BCYF. Classes cover visual and performing arts, aiming to foster creativity and exploration.
“It is so important for children to learn, create and experience the Arts. Beyond self expression, it builds their confidence to imagine and explore new skills,” said Marta E. Rivera, Commissioner of Boston Centers for Youth & Families.
The program began in January 2025 with the recruitment of teaching artists who are experienced in 14 different art disciplines. The teaching artists are paired with BCYF community centers in 10 Boston neighborhoods and will teach between one to three classes per quarter. Classes take place during after-school hours on weekdays or on Saturdays.