I originally got involved with Brush Fire by volunteering with the after school program at the Boys and Girls Club in the Haight. Naomi, the founder of Brush Fire, did an amazing job engaging a group of 15 or so lively kids through various painting projects each week. I really enjoyed seeing how proud the kids were of their paintings and listening to them explain the thought and details that went into their masterpieces.
I highly recommend volunteering with Brush Fire. Brush Fire fills a void in many kids lives by providing a creative outlet to those who may not have that opportunity elsewhere.
With art education being almost non-existent in the public school systems, it's necessary to have organizations like Brush Fire to keep creativity alive. Students gain not only learnings about artistic expression, but also how art can act as a tool for personal growth. Partnering with schools and organizations dealing with at-risk youth, Brush Fire has helped many students find their own voice through positive self-expression.
I had a great experience at Malcolm X elementary where I met up with Naomi, Brushfires founder. we toured our section of the school. along the way I watched as Naomi called out each kids name and was received by all students with joy and admiration...I had learned that Naomi had been working with Malcolm X for the passed 5 Years so the students and staff knew here well. Once we made it to the class we would work in it was nice to see some supplies and space she had set up for the use of our workshop. The students arrived and took there seats asking all types of questions about me and what the task of the day would be... with excitement between them and I we were eager to begin. Naomi started the workshop off with intros and then she asked each student how their day was. I thought this was a positive way to make us all more comfortable. Naomi then set us up and gave us direction to work. kids are funny in how they worry about the kid next to them, it was a challenge at times to keep them on task but it was fun to watch them work and tell through their paintings... I would hope to be able to help again...thanks Naomi
Brush Fire Painting worked with our 4th and 5th graders once a week. Students were excited to paint and were always assisted and encouraged by the staff.
I had a wonderful experience volunteering with K-2nd graders at De Avila & Garfield elementary schools. I enjoyed seeing so many young students excited about art and having an opportunity to paint. Brushfire offered a creative outlet for these students to express their dreams and emotions through picture story-telling.