A message from our Executive Director, Sarah Holbach

Dear Friends,

Imagine a space where any person can access creativity in a way that works for them – from a quiet space to introduce your one year old to paint for the first time, to an engaging, standards-based field trip for your fourth grade class, to a lively printmaking party where adults find belonging and connection through art. In this environment, San Diegans can tap into their creativity, grow their confidence, and develop new skills to last a lifetime.

This vision is becoming reality through our new community arts space – a hub for people of all ages and backgrounds to access affordable classes, share ideas, build confidence, and experience the joy of art. But as school and community budgets for arts programs continue to be cut, young people need creative outlets more than ever.

This is where we could use your help.

For over 17 years, ArtReach has worked to bring impactful arts programs that respond directly to community needs. The demand for our programs is growing. With a donation today, our Teaching Artists can continue this work, creating brighter futures for children and ensuring that every student has access to meaningful, empowering art experiences.

Here’s how we’re making a difference:

In-Studio Classes: “My 3 year old daughter has been taking classes with Ms. Laurie and absolutely loves them. She is delayed in fine motor skills and since starting the classes her teachers at school have commented on her improved ability to hold a pencil, do fine motor skills and the best part, her confidence in doing these skills has improved. She tells us she wants to be an artist like Ms Laurie when she grows up.”

Community Collaborations: “Working with ArtReach has been an absolute dream! They are creative, responsive, adaptable, dependable, and community-minded. In the projects we’ve worked on together—from murals and wellness workshops, to creating large, meaningful art installations and tabling in the community—ArtReach goes above and beyond. They connect with community members—kids, youth, adults—authentically.”

In-School Programs: “This program was a transformative experience for my students. The program fosters inclusivity and encourages self-expression, which enabled my students to further explore their identities and share their unique stories through art. The impact was profound; students who typically struggled to engage in class found their voice through ArtReach.”

Our programs are creating tangible change. In 2025, we are upping these offerings at our studios – extending open studio hours, more family drop-in play, day camps when school is out, and field trips when school is in. Teaching Artists traveling across San Diego County will engage an additional 8,000 young people through our transformational Mural and Residency outreach programs. Thank you for being a part of this work.

Let’s keep building brighter futures together – your donation today ensures every student has the chance to create, heal, and grow through art.

Contribute online or reply to this email to learn how to get involved. I can’t wait to see you in our space soon!

In creativity and joy,

Sarah Holbach,
Executive Director