Every youth participant completed their project and had an opportunity to express themselves. I learned to be flexible and to have an opening exercise to ground and relax everyone into the space was important. I was proud that the youth noticed the artwork examples I brought to inspire them, and that they showed interest in participating.

I believe this first year at Apple Ridge was a great success and I see they have already taken the next steps of building relationships with other artists and staff members by engaging more artists this year through the Arts Connect Neighbors Catalog. After the summer camp I know these relationships will continue in Roanoke and will inspire and support more Arts Connections in many of the Neighborhood. The the Apple Ridge summer Staff, junior counselors, and the children I met during the summer camp are also community leaders in Roanoke neighborhoods. I am proud to see the relationships and opportunities expand to help community members continue their services..