Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Empowering Youth Through Art & Creative Programs
Founded in 1937, the Community Art Center has served as a neighborhood institution dedicated to empowering youth through artistic expression. Our mission focuses on cultivating a community of young individuals whose creative voices drive transformative change in their lives and surroundings. With decades of experience, we provide year-round programs for youth aged 5-19, combining hands-on arts education with comprehensive support services. Our expertise lies in fostering civic engagement and leadership through creative problem-solving, supported by a team of dedicated staff and volunteers who understand the challenges our youth face.As a trusted leader in arts education, we maintain a family-like environment with wrap-around services, including mental health support and meal programs, while integrating new technologies into traditional art forms. Our authority in youth-driven art initiatives is demonstrated through nationally recognized events like the DIYDS!! Youth Film Festival, the oldest of its kind in the country.
Services
Teen Media Program
Teen Public Art Program
School Age Child Care
Community Programs
DIYDS!! Youth Film Festival
Mental Health Services
Transportation Services
Family Engagement Initiatives
Arts Workshops
Public Art Projects
Details
- Year established: 1937
Highlights and features
- We have over 85 years of experience cultivating youth leadership through art.
- Our programs include comprehensive wrap-around support services for youth in crisis.
- We operate the nation's oldest youth-curated film festival since 1937.
- Our staff includes alumni who understand local youth challenges firsthand.
- We combine traditional arts with modern technology in our computer labs.
Services
Teen Media Program
This program empowers teens aged 13-19 to become digital creators and storytellers. Participants learn multimedia production skills while developing their artistic voice. The curriculum emphasizes youth-driven content creation through hands-on projects.
Teen Public Art Program
Teens design and execute public art projects across Cambridge. This program combines artistic development with community impact, teaching mural creation and large-scale art installation techniques. Participants gain experience in collaborative public works.
School Age Child Care Program
Serving children aged 5-12, this program uses arts education to develop creative problem-solving skills. The hands-on curriculum integrates visual arts, performing arts, and digital media to foster early creative development.
DIYDS!! Youth Film Festival
The nation's oldest youth-curated film festival showcases original works by young filmmakers. Participants gain experience in all aspects of film production, from scriptwriting to final screening. The event promotes youth voices through cinematic expression.
Community Programs
These programs engage all community members through public art projects, family workshops, and cultural events. Initiatives include the annual Port Arts Fest and ongoing family art classes that strengthen community bonds through creative collaboration.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve youth aged 5-19 through our School Age Child Care Program for younger children and Teen Programs for older participants.
Are there mental health support services available?
Yes, we provide comprehensive wrap-around services including mental health support as part of our Circle of Support program for youth in crisis.
What technology resources do you offer?
Our media and design computer labs provide access to digital art tools, video editing software, and other technologies that complement traditional art instruction.
How can families get involved?
Families can participate through our Community Programs, attend public events like Port Arts Fest, or join family art workshops held throughout the year.
What is the DIYDS!! Youth Film Festival?
DIYDS!! is the nation's oldest youth-curated film festival, showcasing original works by young filmmakers and providing production experience since 1937.
Videos