Statement Arts Inc

Statement Arts has not just helped me in acting and singing but has also helped me change as a person. It allowed me to find a personality that I’ve never had before. It’s allowed me to meet such wonderful and caring people. The community here is absolutely amazing, and I feel like I can call this my second home.

My month at Statement Arts has taught me more than I learn in a year at a performing arts school or theater program. Not just the voice lessons, the acting classes, and dance lessons, but the personal growth and support from everyone in and working for the program. Whether you needed a laptop or breakfast or a hug, the staff, interns, and anyone in the room is willing and eager to support you in any way they can. We learned how to support each other and love ourselves, and the community here is really a family. Seeing all of my friends grow so much in so little time and seeing myself grow and feel so loved really made such a difference in my life and how I will go about the world and the college process. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity and be a part of this community.

statement arts truly deserves all the support it needs because it is essential to young artists. statement arts not only provided me with the training and education I needed to improve artistically and the space to perform freely, but a community of safety, encouragement, and support. I am leaving this program stronger than before and with life long friends.

I am so greatful to have been a part of the Statement Arts Program! I have learned so much about trusting myself and my ability. Without this program, I would have been so behind in preparing for the college process in the fall. They have helped me write my personal statement and create my college list. I am so much more confident in my singing and acting ability thanks to Statement Arts. I feel so much more confident heading into the college and audition process being in the Statement Arts family.

I have been involved with statement arts since I was a student in the StART Dreaming program in 2022. I can say that this program is an opportunity that has helped me grow in many aspects. As a performer, person, and artists statement arts has helped me to grow into myself as well as into my art. This summer I have been working as an intern as statement arts and I loved it! This program played a huge role in getting me into college by helping me get ready for auditions as well as written applications. I now go to NYU Tisch and I appreciate statement arts so much !

Statement has expanded my acting and singing experience and has pushed me to be the best artist i can be. I expected this program to help me improve my singing and acting skills because I wasn’t that confident in my talents but they have taught me to use that nervousness in my performances. They definitely met all my expectations and more. Now I am more confident and when i don’t feel the most confident I constantly remember Ms.P telling everyone to use all the emotion they actually feel into their songs, monologues and dances.

Hello, my name is Ada Fernandez and this program has helped me so much. I have no true comments on things to improve. This experience has taught me how to enjoy my presence. I suffer from not appreciating myself, though through this leadership I learned it’s okay not to be perfect! I came into this program expecting a regular summer program! This has broken my expectations, it helped me deeply in so many ways.

This nonprofit has been so life changing and is truly such an amazing opportunity for young people with a passion for the arts. Statement Arts is a loving environment with amazing teachers that show you how powerful vulnerability can be. I highly recommend, it has impacted my life and my abilities immensely!

Statement Arts has helped me thrive as an artist in ways that no other program has done for me before. I’ve never been able to let myself fully be vulnerable on stage, I feared that everyone was judging me on stage but this program has truly let me be free on stage. For the first time, I feel truly proud of my performance and my skills as a performer.

I HAD ALOT OF FUN!! I feel like I learned so much about my voice and myself as a whole. I feel like I gained a lot more self confidence just from day 2 of being in the program even as a intern

Alicia Seetaram - Statement Arts is extremely compelling! As a student, they made me feel important and inspired me to keep dreaming. From the college writing classes, private vocal lessons, and group ensemble moments, this program captivated me by storm. It was greater than my dreams could have imagined.

I loved this program it really helped me grow as a performer!

This program was so fun to be in! We got to learn songs, make choreography, and make new friends! I just wish it was a bit longer. Definitely check it out! It's 2.5 weeks long, and difficult, but worth it!

Statement arts changed my life. And I mean that in the best way possible. The people there are the sweetest and most helpful people I’ve ever met. They have helped me so much with the things I’ve been insecure and anxious about, such as social anxiety, my swaying habit, and college essays. Statement arts has also helped me so much towards becoming a better performer, and even has altered my perspective on certain topics for the better.

I was part of their program this year, and they welcomed us with open arms. From the very first day the 16 of us started to transform into better versions of ourselves, we learned that vulnerability isn't weakness. They treated us as if we were their own kids and made sure we ate and had metro cards for transportation. Even though the summer is over, they are still pushing us to be the best we can be. They are definitely worth the four weeks of learning. 10/10 experience

I was a part of the Statement Arts: Start Dreaming Program this year and it has honestly changed me as a person. I went into it not knowing what I really wanted to do once I had to start looking at colleges and majors, along with feeling very uncomfortable with my voice and body as an actor. But after completing the summer intensive, I have grown tremendously as an actor and an individual. I was given a space to fall down hard and then get back up again surrounded by love and support, and Im so proud to say that I am apart of the Statment Arts Family

Our daughter had an AMAZING experience this summer with the Statement Arts program! She gained a lot of self confidence and self esteem, at a time when she really needed it-and we owe that to the statement arts teachers and staff. They helped our daughter, and us, in such meaningful ways. The quality of the program is excellent! The passion from each teacher and staff member is so strong. We are incredibly grateful to have been a part of the program. I kept saying over and over during the two and a half weeks, “I can’t believe this program exists!” THANK YOU, Statement Arts-for making such a beautiful impact on our daughter, and on us!
-The Reinert Family :)

My daughter enjoyed going and making new friends and I love that she had a place to go and do what she loves and meet new people.

Fue una gran experiencia primera vez que mis hijas participan y la verdad disfrutaron mucho su estancia están muy felices con sus maestras sus nuevos amigos …todo lo que aprendieron muchas gracias por dejarnos ser parte del programa y por la oportunidad

This is our 2nd year in statement arts, and it came with another great adventure. My son told me that there are more kids this year, and I'm sure they will make a great final performance. Thank you to all the teachers , staff, and especially the coordinators. They keep us well informed of the progress of our kids and all about the program. Thank you for the free meals and metro-cards. Keep up the good work!



Sincerely, The Carabelli Family

I worked as a Teaching Artist with Statement Arts StArt Young Program this summer. The Statement Arts team was very supportive and accommodating throughout the summer. The kids had a great time and really enjoyed the overall experience of engaging in Musical Theater in Washington Heights.

The work that Statement Arts does is so important! To think, there’s a free program that offers a place for children to sing, dance, and act amazes me. Children will benefit immensely from being part of Statement Arts.

I was hired at Statement Arts a few months before the July programs began. Learning about the programs on paper couldn’t even begin to accurately depict the transformation I witnessed in each and every one of their students when programs began.

I found that Statement Arts offers youth of all backgrounds and identities a safe space to hone in on their authentic voices and provides them with artistic tools that guide them to discover who they truly are as artists and as a human beings.

I saw shy students confidently sing on a stage in front of people for the first time. I saw students with zero artistic background learn to emote through a monologue. I saw introverted students take up space and find long-term friends. All within one month.

As an artist myself, I understand the transformative power of arts education AND the cultivation of a community you feel safe to take risks with. Statement Arts offers that, for FREE.

I’m truly honored to be able to be a part of an organization that champions youth from underrepresented communities to own their authenticity and make impactful art out of it.

I had the pleasure of working as a creative writing teacher/social worker for this summer and I must say that It was an amazing experience! The Statement Arts team truly cares for these kids and go above and beyond to make this experience a memorable one. Every day I saw as the kids opened up a little more and blossomed during the final show. Statement Arts becomes their safety place, their second home. This program is a great opportunity for the kids to find their voice. I am so grateful that I was part of this program because I got to meet wonderful, talented, and hilarious kids who have the biggest hearts. Additionally, I am grateful to have worked with such an amazing team! It makes me happy to know that programs like these exist to uplift the youth.

My son had an amazing experience at Statement Arts! He is extremely shy but was able to make so many like-minded friends and break out of his shell to show his talents. I am very grateful for this FREE program that gives children the opportunity to explore their talents. Thanks so much Statement Arts!!

I worked as music director for one of Statement Arts' summer programs and I had the best time. The team was very supportive and always available to help with a lesson if I needed assistance. Every student we had in the program was invested and learned a lot. Statement Arts really creates a family of artists that are all focused on achieving the mission of the company.

The Statement Arts program was truly such a transformative experience for me, the program elevated me not only as a young artist but as a person as well. This experience of a lifetime, was beautifully insightful as I navigated the waters of finding my voice. Throughout the course of the college readiness program, I was challenged to strip away the layers I built around myself and shine a light on the deeper parts within me that I don't show on an everyday basis. It was the process of breaking out of my shell and digging deep within to reach my fullest potential. We had the most amazing range of mentors that each helped us to channel and understand the different parts of our mind and body through different lenses, whether it be through music, acting, self-reflection and so much more. Statement Arts truly felt like such a genuine home, it is the most comforting environment rooted in love. It is a family that I am very proud and grateful to be connected too. I wouldn't be where I am if it weren't for the incredible guidance, support, and resources I received at Statement Arts!!! I learned so much that I will take with me as I venture into my college journey.
-Zoe Young

With Statement Arts, I received more than just a July filled with arts training. I gained a family of like minded individuals who genuinely had everyone's best interests at heart. There was never a moment where I didn’t feel welcomed or encouraged to get on stage and do what I love. Additionally every person associated with Statement Arts was friendly, kind, and had an aura that made you feel safe around them. After the first day, I knew I was going to have a productive and fun summer. Specifically with the Start Dreaming program, you’re given arts training along with college preparation and assistance. I would also add that you gain life training. All the wisdom the staff, interns, and students bestowed upon each other is something I will take with me for the rest of my life. I don’t think you will find a better free performance based organization than Statement Arts. Lastly, the top three things I would use to summarize Statement Arts is; “Family,” “Amazing,” and “The Best Thing That Happened To Me.” They definitely deserve all the love and praise for the hard work they’ve done and the lives they’ve changed.

Love! Love! Love Statement Arts! Singing, acting, dance and theater programs can be extremely costly! Sadly, this can be a barrier for many talented youth with so much potential. This amazing non profit organization provides children with a FREE creative space to grow, share and learn so much! They also provide mentorship and college assistance for HS students! This was our first experience with Statement Arts. My son (9 years old) and daughter (11 years old) attended the two week Start Young summer program.
My son made great friends and showed growth in his confidence. My daughter loves the arts. She absolutely LOVED it! Seeing her perform on stage with so much joy and passion was absolutely AMAZING and gave me so much joy!
The staff is also very caring and professional.
I 100% recommend this organization to anyone who has a child interested in the performing arts!

My son was, let’s say annoyed with me for enrolling him in the Start program, but after 2 days he was hooked. He made friends, he was excited about what they were learning, and rehearsing. He really can’t wait for his end-of-camp performance. He’s already asking to sign up for next summer. Staff is friendly and communicate quickly. We are so lucky to have this here in Washington Heights!

I can talk about this amazing, life changing non profit for so long, to keep short StArts had definitely put me on an amazing path over and over again. From bringing the arts into my life to teaching me how to incorporate lessons from art into all aspects of life. It’s brought a lot of color, love, and friends/family to my life and I can definitely say that anyone who is able to attend this amazing non profit has been blessed to join our happy, and mighty family. Through art and through this program I’ve been able to navigate through life in a much healthier way with a broader more open-minded perspective.

I went to Statement Arts my junior year and couldn’t stop coming back to help out. The staff and the people I met along the way completely changed my life and how I viewed art. They gave all of us an opportunity to work on music professionally and acting. On top of that I had a space and an audience to perform! This happens for many kids that don’t have the money to pay for other programs. It’s been a great experience and one I’ll never forget. I was prepared to audition for colleges, I got the help I needed for auditions, and for the process to apply for colleges, They made the process 10 times easier for me, and it was because I had that kind of support I got into SUNY Purchase for BFA Acting. I know I can always come back to visit and if I ever need anything, these are the people I can come back to.

For years, as a youth theater educator and director I have been strongly recommending Statement Arts to my students that I know want to take performing to the next level, collegiately and/or professionally. I’ve seen first-hand the transformation that takes place in all my students who attend this program. Not only will Statement Arts help a student become a better performer, but it will give them the resources they need to become a better student. Statement Arts not only helps their students perfect their craft and hone their skills, but they guide each student through the most important time in their educational lives as they each prepare and apply for college.

Loved my experience as a volunteer. The environment is just welcoming and everyone has so much passion to help these kids grow.

I've been an employee of Statement Arts since 2018 and could not have more positive things to say about the experience I've had and the impact this organization makes. I've held a variety of different roles and responsibilities and have witnessed firsthand how hard the team (and not just employees - EVERYONE who comes into contact with Statement Arts) works to provide wrap-around services to the incredible young people we serve. StART actively cultivates a family dynamic and for many of our students we’ve become a second home. When a need is expressed by one of our family members, our incredible community of alumni, board members, and volunteers find a way to address it. This mentality of banding together and solving issues was proven to a whole new level during the past year when we faced an uncertain future amidst the pandemic. Our summer programs have always taken place in-person and we needed to react quickly to make sure the same level of support we've always offered during our intensives and year-round could be maintained during a time when it was needed more than ever by our students. I'm incredibly proud of the work that has gone into providing virtual arts education classes, professional development workshops, and community building that, as the world slowly returns to normal, now supplements our in-person events and offerings making us a stronger organization as a whole.

Statement Arts is one of the best organizations I have worked with. The community building, social-emotional care, and art instruction that is provided through their programming is breathtaking. I worked as the social-work intern for summer 2021 and all I can say (and hope) is that more young people continue to be guided and supported by Statement Arts. The staff, interns, and young people involved are dynamic, caring people. Liza and her staff holistically support each student and the growth I noticed, in only 3 weeks, is unmet. I wish this program could be offered to every New York high schooler. The impact of Statement Arts will stay with me, and I believe with the students, for years to come.

Statement arts isn’t like other intensives that are offered in the city. It’s so easy to build an environment that can promote this sense of competition amongst students especially when regarding the performing arts! Statement arts however, does quite the opposite. From my experience, being able to not only intern and learn from one of the greatest vocal coaches all thanks to connections made through this program, but watching the growth of certain students that have never set foot on stage to being comfortable to perform a whole showcase was nothing less than magical. The atmosphere of unconditional love of the self and community that is taught within this program is one that every kid making the transitions in life should go through which is why it’s so easy to sit here to be pro-statement arts!

As an intern I learned so much about the nonprofit environment and I feel identified with the field. Thank you StART for giving me a chance!

I have been both a student and intern at statement arts & I can’t begin to explain the help and support that statement arts provides for their students. It truly is a life changing experience for these young kids. I’ve witnessed students go from being doubtful & unconfident in themselves to radiant, bold, & self assured young people ready to take on life. Although they are an art based organization, they do hold a writing class that assists students in writing their college essays, which is also another space where you see breakthroughs in the students. They leave having an essay or draft of an essay that will be the one to get them into college. Statement Arts also supports students with their college application process & continue to have an 100% college acceptance rate. Every student that goes into statement arts gets into college & is able to APPLY to college no matter the cost. The students genuinely grow SO much in the 3 week portion of Statement Arts, it is work that deserves to be recognized, & needs to be seen world wide. Everyone should be able to experience the magic that Statement Arts gives their students.

I love to volunteer every year for Statement Arts summer programs. They are fantastic! how they impact these kids' lives and being part of that mission is priceless.

StatementArts is a small but mighty group of hardworking people with an incredible mission of bringing the arts to kids who wouldn't otherwise have access to them. I'm proud to have worked with them!

It was such a pleasure watching and listening to the Summer Virtual StART Young Program. Statement Arts clearly has cultivated the talent and the spirit of so many wonderful kids, giving them opportunities to grow that otherwise would be unavailable to them. Their talent was amazing and their smiles were priceless.

I learned about Statement Arts Inc. after I met its founder Liza Politi. When Liza is not mentoring, teaching and "parenting" the brilliant youth that participate in the Statement Arts programs, she organizes and executes amazing photography workshops. I had the privilege to attend one of her workshops and it was by far the best travel and photography educational opportunity I have ever had. Every detail from where we stayed, transportation, classes, day trips, etc. was thoroughly and thoughtfully executed. When I found out about Statement Arts, I knew that same level of passion, dedication and love would be infused into the program and into the students. I do not live in New York, but I had the privilege of zooming into their summer end performance. I witnessed firsthand the talent, commitment and passion of both the students and the teachers. Statement Arts has an important niche for the youth of New York that might not be able to afford to pursue their artistic passions. I proudly support Statement Arts because I believe in their vision, their mission and in the leadership of the program. It is genuinely a program where passion for the arts is contagious, in all the right ways!!! Be safe!

Statement Arts is an amazing organization that provides arts programs and any support students needs for them to be successful in their lives, academically and personally. They teach children to be confident with a strong self esteem and self love. Their program is not just an education program but a family, a strong community where kids can rely on when they are struggling or figuring out their places in the world. They care about an individual student's dream and potential. They spread the love so that the students of the program can share the love they received.

Both my daughters have been attending the Statement Arts summer program for years. They enjoy the singing and coming up with a showcase that shares their views on different issues. I love to see them express themselves through the arts and become more confident humans every year!

My 15 years old daughter, MJ, has participated in the Statement Arts performing arts summer camp for the past four summers. She looks forward to it every year and I actually have to plan our vacation around the camp! She loves to sing and over the years, thanks in part to the Statement Arts family, her confidence and desire to perform has grown. Through performance arts and script development, Statement Arts provides a safe space for participants to express their thoughts and ideas about important issues that impact their lives and their community. As a rising junior, the college prep workshops got her think about the college process early and because of this we are ahead of the game. Most importantly, she developed friendships.
Thank you Talia, Mark, Naiqui, Zahaira, Mildred, Kamaria, Miriama, Eleanor, Joyce and Ms. P!

My daughter first joined Statement Arts in the Summer of 2016 and fell in love! Having just finished a very traumatizing year in her academic life, her spirit was broken and she was unhappy. Attending the 2 week summer program is just what she needed! She made new friends, was exposed to something she wasn't extremely familiar with and was able to put the past school year behind her! She attended the program the following 2 summers (she would've done every summer but she worked and the hours just didn't allow it)...and is now eligible and will hopefully (if there one), take part in the College Prep program as she is now a senior in high school. Statement Arts is an AMAZING nonprofit that does wonderful things for the younger members of our community...so happy it exists! We love love it!

My twin daughters have participated in Statement Arts summer theater program for a couple of years. They have met great kids and teachers and learned so much about improv, acting, writing... I’m so grateful for this as a mom.

I have been going to Statement Arts for four years now each year has shown me something about myself that I hadn't discovered yet. For example, I am very reserved upon meeting new people, but I was welcomed into my first year at StArts with a big hug. It did not take long for me to make friends and for me to feel comfortable around everyone. My second and third years taught me the importance of using my voice and how anyone can make a change with enough passion. My fourth year, this year, has taught me that joy can be found even in the darkest times. This year especially I have gotten to know how loving and supportive the family at Statement Arts. At least twice per week there were zoom calls that allowed to stay connected and engaged with each other, and the calls offered support through just having conversations, art therapy, yoga, and more! Statement Arts is the best!!

-Kayla MJ

In the summer of 2019 my daughter Jasmine, an 11 grader at a Performing Arts High School auditioned for and got into Statement Arts summer program. She had a background of going to performing arts classes as a child, then a performing arts Junior High School and now was in a Performing Arts High School, which was a triple-threat school. She was always very talented, her acting off the charts, her dancing fine, but she didn't have a lot of confidence in her singing voice. Statement Arts within the short few weeks of their summer program was able to bring out my daughter's voice in a way she didn't think it could exist. It helped her to truly realize and appreciate her vocal gift. When she did her solo in the end of program performance she was powerful, brilliant and she bought tears to my eyes and those of her older sister. This program got to truly know the students, find out what was important to them and help them to create a performance that emphasized their inner greatness. Any program that can do that is a treasure to find and be a part of! Statement Arts is a Godsend!

This program supports the development of performing arts for under served NYC school children. I have supported this wonderful organization for several years. The quality of the Statement Arts team and its dedication to the students they serve is exemplary. I have attended several of the program's annual student performances and have always been struck not only by the passion and talent of the of the students but the quality of the program's instructors and its student performances. Its SAT support program provides its student performers with the tools they need to properly prepare for the admission tests and has resulted in a college acceptance rate of 100%.

Statement Arts is a fantastic organization!! I have been donating for several years because they have such a great impact on young lives. They help to develop talent, which clearly improves self esteem. It is so rewarding for me to see the support the kids get to apply for and be accepted to college. Thanks for all you do!!!

Statement Arts is an amazing I would recommend to any young artist. It is a place that welcomes everyone with open arms. My experience at statement arts was amazing I grew as a person and I grew within my craft which is directing. Statement arts helped me get into my 1st choice college with the help of the mentors they provided. I had my college essay done before everyone in my grade thanks to statement arts. Statement arts also helped me with any extra fees that I couldn’t cover. Even after the program statement arts was still there for me checking up on me helping me. Statement arts is truly a family and everyone should go and be apart of this amazing community.

Statement arts is an amazing non profit that helps young kids get a step into the right direction and get the support that sometimes isn’t provided at school or at home! It is a program that mentors, supports, and inspires kids to pursue their dreams in theatre but also whatever they put their mind to.

As an alum of the college prep program, I can attest to the amazing works of StART. It is really hard to describe what exactly makes the organization different from others-- but in my experience I have never met individuals who are more consistent, supportive, giving, and overall kind to all who join the family. Statement Arts is a family. Once you're in, you're in for life. The doors are always open and ready for people to join, and those who have left to come back.

Statement Arts is an amazing nonprofit bringing arts education programs to kids from underserved communities across NYC. The organization was founded in the early 2000s by two of my high school teachers and has helped enrich the lives of countless of students (like me!) through exposure to music, theater, and visual arts. I now have the honor of being on the Board and doing my part to ensure the organization and the kids served through our programs continue to thrive.

I have been working with Statement Arts for the past 5 years. A friend of mine suggested I get involved as music director and made the connection for me - I have loved every minute spent with them. They are an incredible organization committed to making a difference in the lives of NYC teens by inspiring them to create, perform, and dream big while equipping them with the planning skills to actuate their dreams. Every student who participates in a Statement Arts program leaves with a greater sense of self, awareness of important world events and ideas, and is given a beautiful and diverse community of friends to help them on their life journey. I truly can’t say enough positive things about Statement Arts and have continued to come back to work with them each year because the difference I see in the students is transformative. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, extremely talented and couldn’t be more kind. Congrats to founder Liza Politi for starting such a life-changing program. 5 stars all the way around!

Statement Arts is the real deal. Staff bend over backward to make sure the kids get every advantage. They are inclusive of diverse students and are a one-stop-shop for information about the college application process, financial aid, and how best to pursue a career in the performing arts. Classes are well organized and structured, but still flexible enough to accommodate the needs of individual students.

Statement Arts does life-changing work with NYC youth, beginning with its immersive summer program, and for its college preparatory students, extending through the school year. The organization prides itself of its college acceptance rate, as well as its unique alumni programming and community engagement.

I got involved with Statement Arts about 2 years ago, and the experience has been absolutely fantastic. The way that this organization is able to scale its resources to help kids achieve their dreams is utterly remarkable. I am very proud to be a part of it!

It's inspiring to see what the young people that Statement Arts works with are capable of - and to see them recognizing their own potentials through the program and with the incredible support of the staff.

I have only attended one program, but I was so impressed with the dedicated staff and students! The talent is remarkable and the interactions of everyone was so supportive and loving! Fantastic program!

I first learned about Statement Arts in 2013. I was looking for an internship during the summer between my two years of graduate school in social work, and saw a posting from Statement Arts in a Columbia e-blast. They were looking for a social work intern to come in and teach writing to a group of marginalized young people who were interested in the performing arts. While this might be an unusual environment for some social workers, I couldn't have imagined a more perfect fit. Having majored in Psychology and English in college, and being a singer myself, I knew that I wanted to work with Statement Arts instantly. They brought together everything I loved and believed in. That summer changed my life, and I have stayed close with those students and the organization ever since.

Now, three years later, I am the Interim Executive Director of Statement Arts. I have stayed connected to this organization because I believe in the community it creates for and the hope it instills in the young people it serves. We use the arts as a means to communicate, express, work things out, and grow. I am so humbled and honored to work with some of the most spectacular, talented, brilliant, and vibrant young people I have ever known.

My name is Joyce Mathisen, I recently moved to the New York City area and decided to volunteer for an organization that is passionate about helping children. I spent hours looking through the New York Volunteers website and kept coming back to Statement Arts and the Expanding Horizons College Prep Program. Statement Arts is a perfect fit because it works with students in the area of theater arts and college prep, two things I have experience with from raising my own daughters. I finally decided to contact the organization. The founder Liza Politi and I met so I could learn a little more about the organization, and we ended up talking for over two hours. I immediately knew I wanted to work for the organization.
My official title is donation coordinator but like everyone else in the organization I wear many hats. Over the summer I worked with alumni that came back to intern at the summer program. These students both alumni and current are amazing. They are bright, talented, and passionate individuals. We solicited donations from vendors, ran the first Statement Arts Barnes & Noble Book Fair, research scholarships and grant opportunities, and gave a College Readiness Seminar to the current high school students. Probably more important than all of those things was I listened to them. One young man would tell me everyday he just wanted to make money. I would explained to him that with a college degree he would have more opportunities to move up the ladder at work. He enrolled in classes again for this semester. Another young lady wanted to go to a four year college but is starting in a community college. We talked about her transferring and getting the most out of her community college experience. She went to the guidance office and changed her major from undeclared to music and we are working together on her future college plans.
I am reminded of the old proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” and for these students Statement Arts is that village. It is more than a summer program for them it’s a community where they can shine and believe in themselves and their dreams. I feel both humbled and honored to work with them.
New York is in desperate need of organizations like Statement Arts. We recently hosted a fundraiser, our first golf outing. At the dinner I was talking to one of the participants and he told me his son teaches at an inner city school. He explained to me that many of these children have nothing to do over the summer which can lead to trouble. It made me extremely proud to be a part of Statement Arts and the Expanding Horizon College Prep Program. Please help us to continue to grow and to work with these students.
Liza always says there is more than one way to be a parent and once you’re a Statement Arts kid you are always a Statement Arts kid. I think I want to change that to once you are Statement Arts family you are always Statement Arts family. We are asking you to support us and be a part of our family. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Joyce Mathisen

I had a great time working with Statement Arts and their group of kids. As Producer of Room 28 Comedy we have worked with them for our live sketch shows. They are a bright and full of energy We couldn't have had a smoother experience. Thank you so much to the organization and kids for being amazing.

Statement Arts is one of those organizations that excels in empowerment. The individuals who volunteer their time care about the children and young adults they work with. We supply social services support, mentoring, and college prep programs in addition to our arts education classes.

Statement Arts has changed my life and I'm happy to share that with everyone that joins us.

I learned about the work of Statement Arts by happenstance some months ago. On first impression, I was simply awe-struck by the work they are doing with under-served youth and I was inspired to get involved. After reaching out to one of the founders, it became clear to me that this is a labor of love by a group of very talented and dedicated artists and professionals. Having met some of the young adults and seen how Statement Arts' programs have impacted and shaped them, I am even more impressed by the important work of this organization. I recently joined the Board and look forward to helping the organization expand its footprint so that more youth can benefit from their work.

I have been involved with various Statement Arts projects over the past several years. As a professional photographer, I have been involved with documenting projects.

have donated to statement arts and seen first hand the wonderful work they do with kids and the Arts. It's truely amazing how they can reach kids and the results are spectacular.

I am a founder of Statement Arts and have developed the project "Urban Arts" for the past four years. The dedication shown by the board members, volunteers, and project leaders far surpasses any non-profit I've worked with. The students that partner with "Urban Arts" achieve great success in performances, preparing for college, working with community, and traveling for competitions. The Statement Arts volunteers develop meaningful work that changes students' lives.

We believe Statement Arts fills a much needed void in bringing the arts into the lives of many, especially underserved children. The vibrant interactive performances of The Think Theater Project for young children, for example, fosters understanding and acceptance in a fun and educational format. Watching the reaction of the children and their parents at their live shows, is a joy. Annette & Seth Kaminsky

We had an opportunity to attend one of Statement Arts plays produced by Think Theater. It was so much fun watching the play and watching the enthusiasm that it generated among the children. We particularly loved the interaction of the actors with the children. Richard & Carol Van Deusen

I am the project leader for The Think Theater Project. Statement Arts' support and enthusiasm was the driving force for the success of this program. The thought, compassion and detail that they put into every project is truly amazing. I am proud to now serve as a board member and continue to be inspired by the students, creative team, and directors of Statement Arts.

I worked with Statement Arts in Provincetown this past summer. Not only was their work with kids top notch, but the intellectual dialogue they built around their work amongst a diverse array of other artists was exceptional. I still keep in touch with many of the artists and arts educators I met through my participation with Statement Arts. I expect that as their community continues to grow, the work of Statement Arts will only get stronger, push further, and have a greater impact... I can't see how it won't.

The artists at Statement Arts have gone above and beyond in working with the students at our school. Liza and her team are wonderful and have helped our students to prepare for our annual musicals each year. Their dedication and expertise have provided our students with an education that will carry them in all facets of life. We are eternally grateful to them and are fortunate to have them as invaluable contributors to our school community. They are the best!

I helped organize last year's Think Theatre Project, one of Statement Arts most recent outreach programs. It was an amazing experience, and I will be helping again this year as well. It's pretty incredible to find an organization that is so clear on it's goals to help kids. The group's enthusiasm and passion is really inspiring, and I am very proud to be a part of it.

I have recently come to know Statement Arts through their 'Think Theatre' program. I am quite impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the creative team and think that they have an incredible capacity to reach and impact the lives of the children they serve. It was very exciting to watch the first season unfold and I look forward to 'Think's' continued success.

My first introduction to Statement Arts was when I went to see the high school performance of A Chorus Line. I was amazing by the talent and acting abilities of the kids which clearly was do to the dedicated mentoring by Statement Arts. I have also seen how the Think Theater project has works with younger children, through theater, to dissect topics such as tolerance, discrimination, diversity and peace building. Their performance of Peacemaker was top notch! Statement Arts is made up of incredibly talented and dedicated artist.

I have been working as a volunteer with Statement Arts for three years now, and I've never met a more enthusiastic and dedicated team. They manage to jump through hoops and make the impossible happen... all on a shoestring. It's amazing to see students really come out of their shells and become better, more articulate, considerate, thoughtful citizens as a result of their theater experience. I'm really looking forward to helping take the organization to the next level over the next two years. If you have a spare few dollars to donate to the arts I can assure you it will be well spent at Statement Arts.