 What are your organization’s guiding values? Community Art Center was founded in 1937 with the aim of efficiently, effectively, and ethically supplying mutual aid and comprehensive human services to the residents of the Newtowne Court and Washington Elms public housing communities, with an emphasis on the arts and creative youth development. We believe in the power of young people – CAC sees youth as capable, creative, and essential contributors to their communities. We believe in the power of artistic expression: Art is viewed as a vital tool for self-expression, healing, and transformation. We believe in taking care of ourselves and each other: The organization fosters a supportive environment where participants and staff prioritize well-being, mutual respect, and community care. This includes access to mental health services, meals, and a safe, inclusive space. We believe in creating positive change in our neighborhood and beyond: CAC’s work is rooted in social justice and community engagement. What are the ongoing services or programs that CAC provides? The Art Center offers early education, out-of-school-time, and summer camp programs licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Its programs include:
Do you have any upcoming projects or initiative that you would like others to know about? "A Place Called Home | Our Voice, Our Stories, Our Legacy: Celebrating Black Cambridge Youth Through The Arts" is an exhibition of Community Art Center's collection of archival photographs from the early days of photography through today. This unique collection offers a glimpse into a loving community that was once one of the most diverse in Cambridge, the Port. Each image holds a different story as seen through the eyes of the neighborhood youth who call the Port “home." The exhibition will be on display at Street Theory Collective Gallery from June 25 to August 28. Share a recent story that embodies the work of your organization. In addition to producing their own film festival, DIYDS!!, here in Cambridge, the longest-running youth film festival in the country, CAC teens have recently begun submitting films they have directed and produced to other festivals. Recently, four young people from the Art Center’s Teen Media Program had their films accepted into the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center’s Youth Diversity Film Festival. Recognizing the impact this opportunity could have on their self-confidence, their lives, and their connections within the broader youth film community, CAC’s Executive Director researched airfare, and CAC decided to fly the young filmmakers to Los Angeles with the Teen Media Program Manager to attend the screenings and receive their awards. Making young people feel valued, appreciated, and supported is a priority for CAC. When an opportunity arises to provide them with a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we do everything we can to make it happen. If CAC were an emoji, what would it be and why? 🤝 The Hand-Holding emoji. CAC strives to be trusted like family and to be a place where youth are celebrated, as well as a soft space to land when they make mistakes. A held hand is uplifting, offers comfort, and helps people feel less alone. Visit CAC's website   |
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