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Power of Paint (POP)

What the org has to say: “Our mission at Power of Paint Art Academy & Management is to connect, unite, heal, and cultivate leaders who have a strong sense of community, self-awareness, and social responsibility. Our goal is to help counter issues such as depression, boredom, anxiety, esteem issues, grief/loss, and stress, among other things, by hosting art classes, workshops, and community events.”

What we found: Power of Paint started as a small group of women using art to build their self-esteem and focus on mental health. Once confined to a small North Philly basement, the organization has expanded to create hubs in West Philly, Southwest Philly, and over Zoom. POP realized that everyone in the city was being affected by gun violence and opened the opportunities up to anyone interested, young or old. Now, POP is a reliable and accessible safe space for Philadelphians to use art to address trauma.

Features & Policies

  • For youth aged 8-16, flexible
  • Hubs in West and Southwest Philly
  • Partnered with YMCA, Office of Violence Prevention, and EMIR
  • Homework assistance provided
  • College and career readiness assistance
  • Paid opportunities available (various positions, $7.35-$17/hour)
  • Free of charge programs
  • Membership programs ($29/month), payment assistance provided
  • LGBTQ friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Transportation assistance provided
  • Trauma-informed staff members
  • Staff members subject to background checks
  • In-person and virtual

Languages spoken by staff

  • English
  • Español (Spanish)
  • Português (Portugese)
  • Cantonese
  • 普通话 (Mandarin)

Partners

  • YMCA
  • EMIR
  • DA's Office