VAE's Outreach programs and projects tend to be referred to as the "invisible work". It is work that is close to VAE's heart and mission.
Community Outreach
By forming healthy partnerships with local schools, municipalities, other non-profit organizations, healthcare sites and community groups, VAE is able to breathe the arts into branches of the community that otherwise may not have the opportunity to be empowered by the arts and feel the impact it can have in their environment.
Arts Education Partners:
Bennington School Inc., a residential school for emotionally challenged adolescents. Southwestern Vermont Supervisory Union (Local school system)
- Art Programs for "Drop-out students": PLUS Program, MAUS Middle School Program, Upward Bound
- Northshire Christian Academy
- Southshire School
- Tree Home homeschoolers
Municipalities:
- Bennington Fire Department
- Bennington Police Department
Local social service non-profits:
- Bennington Project Independence
- Projects Against Violent Encounters PAVE
- Bank Street Homeless Shelter
- United Counseling Service
- Sunrise Family Resource, Headstart Plus
- Center for Living and Rehabilitation
Low-Income Housing Communities:
- Bennington Fire Department
- Bennington Police Department
Local social service non-profits:
- Bennington Project Independence
- Projects Against Violent Encounters PAVE
- Bank Street Homeless Shelter
- United Counseling Service
- Sunrise Family Resource, Headstart Plus
- Center for Living and Rehabilitation
Municipalities:
- Applegate Residence Association
- Willowbrook Residence Association
Healthcare settings:
- Vermont Veteran's Home
- Bennington Senior Center
- Tewksbury Hospital
- Union Hospital
- United Counseling Service
- Crotched Mountain
Art Bus
The Art Bus is our "Mission in Motion" , a traveling studio on wheels that can bring you to the art or bring the art to you!
It is a reconfigured 1983 International... WAYNE school bus that has been fitted with a built-in table, counter and storage. The Art Bus can transport up to 15 people but usually is seen accommodating up to 10 people at a time as a working studio. The Art Bus has been active in community celebrations such as parades, used at summer camps, holiday festivals, conferences and retreats.
Our "inaugural trip" was to Bennington Elementary School in October for the nationwide celebration of Lights on After School. 38 children visited the bus in 2 hours and made masks under the guidance of Jose Sacaridiz, one of the VAEšs teaching artists.
To discuss a visit of the Art Bus to your school, community event or humble gathering,please contact VAE.