Public Art program

Although limited by the quality and quantity of evaluation data, findings for the Youth Arts Public Art program suggest the program may benefit some youth involved in the juvenile justice system. Using what has been learned about program implementation and impact, program staff are refining the program to emphasize what works and change what does not work. Additionally, reassessing which outcomes are realistic from a 12-week arts-based program with high-risk youth has become a priority for program staff during the redevelopment phase. They acknowledge that the problems facing many of the youth involved in the program (e.g., neglect, physical abuse, homelessness) are more serious and require greater intervention than Youth Arts Public Art can offer. Staff are also reevaluating the appropriate target population to be served by the program.