Dear Friend,
Upstream Arts regularly offers "1-hour freebie" sessions for schools, adult day programs, and other organizations - leading a full hour of our multidisciplinary arts curriculum, free of charge, so potential partners can experience our work before making a commitment.
Recently, we carried out a 1-hour freebie with a middle school in Milwaukee, serving students in their MRP (Most Restrictive Program). Following the freebie, the classroom teacher said something that we're honored to hear on a regular basis:
"That was so much more than I ever imagined it could be.
Who do I talk to, in order to bring you back?"
Each year, Upstream Arts serves 3,000+ people of all ages and abilities through 100+ programs with 80+ partners. While many groups pay full fees for these services, others have a harder time accessing the necessary funds. On average, a 12-week Upstream Arts residency costs $7,000. The bulk of that cost goes to training and compensation of the professional artists who teach our programs, ensuring the high quality of our work. So what happens when a new partner sees the impact of this work and wants to bring us back, but can't afford the $7,000 fee?
Enter our remarkable community of individual supporters!
This year, we have a goal of raising $100,000 from individual supporters. These gifts go straight to where the need is most, often subsidizing programs for those with the least access to financial resources. Thanks to your generosity this fall, we're making excellent progress; but we still have a big push to make.
We can't wait to share the impact of your generosity. Together, we are building a future where all individuals - regardless of ability - wil be engaged, included, and connected in all aspects of our society. Thank you for your belief and support.
