Arts Outreach

Program Overview

Started in 1997, the program pairs under-served children from the nearby city of Brockton with Stonehill mentors. Because most of the Stonehill students who participate have little experience in art, the projects they undertake – ranging from photography and videography to painting and sometimes dance – provide an opportunity for the mentors and mentees to learn and do something new together.

A Mutually Beneficial Arrangement

In addition to working with the children, Stonehill students also attend workshops conducted by experts in adolescent counseling and juvenile criminal justice. They learn not only about the socioeconomic circumstances that sometimes prevent children from reaching their potential but also how mentoring can inspire such children to do better both in school and in their personal lives. In the process, the mentors also develop leadership and problem-solving skills that have the potential to benefit them personally and in their careers.

Statistics kept since the program began show that among the benefits to the mentees are stabilized or improved academic achievement, school attendance and behavioral standards. They also realize gains in self-confidence, decision making and work ethic. Being on campus, and being able to ask the mentors questions about college, also gets the children to begin thinking about going to college themselves.

This is a unique opportunity for students with an interest not only in art, but also in sociology, psychology, art therapy and education.