Free Summer Arts programs build teen wellbeing

Portsmouth — When Sam felt socially isolated last fall after returning to high school after a year of online classes, she needed to find ways to manage feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. Her school guidance counselor recommended Arts In Reach and its community arts programs. Sam joined an after-school multi-media arts program in the fall of 2021 then an upcycle fashion design program this spring and, for the first time, tried comedic theatre during an April vacation program.

“I was nervous at first,” Sam said. “But AIR feels safe and judgment-free. It encourages me to be creative in new ways and be more myself. At AIR it’s easy to make friends and build confidence.”

This summer Sam can’t wait to make ceramics, do more theatre, and try creating a graphic novel at AIR.

AIR is offering five weeks of summer programs for teenage girls and gender expansive youth from Rockingham and Strafford Counties. Four weeks are for teens ages 14 to 18. These programs focus on a week each of ceramics (June 27 to 30 and July 6 to 8), theatre (July 11 to 15), graphic novels (July 18 to 22), and multi-media storytelling (Aug. 1 to 5). One week (July 25 to 29) is for 11 to 13 year-olds and tours the arts and creative exploration.

“We are excited to offer five new and unique in-person programs this summer,” said AIR Program Director Cara Cabral. “It’s sure to be a fun, fast-paced summer of arts, community, and increased wellbeing.”

All programs feature professional teaching artists who balance high-quality arts instruction with creative self-expression and mindfulness. Programs are free for all participants, including supplies and transportation assistance. For more information about AIR’s summer programs and to register, visit www.artsinreach.org.