Remember when A blank sheet of construction paper was transformed into a masterpiece under your small, determined hands? Maybe it was a lopsided house with crooked windows or a family portrait where everyone had rainbow-colored hair. Those childhood art moments weren’t just about creating something—they were about discovering possibilities.
This March, during National Arts Education Month, I want to share why those moments matter so much right now. Here in Central Florida, we’re not just talking about making art— we’re building futures for thousands of children, one paintbrush and musical note at a time.
Research by Americans for the Arts shows that for every dollar invested in after-school arts programs, communities save nine dollars. These programs have been shown to reduce welfare costs, lower crime rates and improve academic performance—all of which contribute to better lifetime earning potential for our young people.
And these aren’t just programs to keep children occupied— they serve as prevention, inspiration and opportunity to combat loneliness by offering students a “third place”—a place where they can feel seen and heard.
Right now, I’m particularly excited about the amazing work coming out of Orlando Family Stage and Page 15 to support literary arts and mental health. And I’m proud of the work that our team at United Arts of Central Florida is doing to bring world-class culture and arts experiences to public-school classrooms in Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.
But we’re facing challenges. Budget cuts continue to threaten these critical programs, with many teachers using their own money to keep creativity alive for their students. While this is a testament to their commitment, it’s also a stark reminder of our collective responsibility.
Supporting arts education isn’t just about paintbrushes and musical instruments. It’s about nurturing the next generation of dreamers and problem-solvers. It’s about preparing future leaders for the booming creative economy in Central Florida.
In essence, it’s about fulfilling the potential of all of our children. And their success—as well as the success of Central Florida—hinges on your support and the support of our community for arts education.
Recently, I had the privilege of attending the UCF Crossroads Speaker Series and heard Daryl Holt, senior vice president and group general manager for Electronic Arts Tiburon development studios (Orlando; Austin, Texas; Madrid, Spain; and Victoria, British Columbia) and American Football, speak during a celebration for the UCF Downtown Campus.
During his opening remarks, Daryl shared that as a child he had wanted to be an artist. It was a joy as I listened and thought about where that desire took him in life.
Daryl highlighted the importance of the opportunities he had during his youth to develop his artistic talents and how, today, Electronic Arts is investing in the creative development of young minds through such neighborhood programs and initiatives as the Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy in Downtown Orlando.
At United Arts of Central Florida, we also believe in creating early pathways for young people. That’s why I invite you to support our Arts for All Fund this month. This fund helps ensure that children of all ages, regardless of background, have access to quality arts education experiences in and out of school.
Together, we can continue to grow a vibrant community where the arts are part of every child’s education and where, by creating something, we discover possibilities.
JENNIFER EVINS
PRESIDENT & CEO
UNITED ARTS OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
