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GoggleWorks’ After School Arts Program breaks enrollment record, serving 177 students

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts (GoggleWorks)

Nov 12, 2020

READING, PA –  GoggleWorks Center for the Arts (GoggleWorks), one of the country’s largest interactive art centers, announced today that it has reached a new personal best for its After School Arts Program (ASAP) serving the local community in downtown Reading, PA. Leaders said that despite the ongoing pandemic, a record 177 students from inner city Reading and eight different school districts will take part in free art classes, which have pivoted to an art kit delivery and online model. The milestone marks continued growth in the demand from area youth during the art center’s 15th anniversary, despite the temporary closure of the program earlier in the year.

“I had countless parents describing how excited their children are that they were accepted into the program this term. The public health crisis has been so hard on a lot of the kids in this community, but ASAP provides them with a constructive outlet where they can get creative and put their energy towards something positive. That’s what this program is all about.” – Alex Gordon, Youth and Teen Programs Manager

ASAP offers students, ages 7-17, residing in the Reading School District and beyond, the opportunity to explore, experiment, and develop their creativity through hands-on, collaborative projects at no cost to their families. All programming is offered free of charge in an effort to remove any financial barriers to the creative process. The program is anchored by a focus on amplifying young voices from our community and promoting social equity. If you would like to help support this amazing program, you can contribute today. Gifts are tax deductible and can be made via check or online at www.goggleworks.org/donate. The program is anchored by a focus on amplifying young voices from our community and promoting social equity. 

“Every facet of our programming has been forced to change because of the pandemic, but artists are used to unique challenges, and it has been inspiring to see the solutions that our teachers and managers have come up with. Unexpected surprises like the high level of online engagement this term are the silver lining to come out of these trying times. ” – Tim Compton, Artistic Director

Taught by professional artists and educators, ASAP typically runs three terms per year (fall, spring I, and spring II) daily from 4:30-5:30pm. The term often culminates in the family arts night event where families are able to see student works made throughout the term and celebrate the growth of each individual. 

Fall term Family Arts Night details:

Who: Family and friends excited to celebrate the success of ASAP students

Where: GoggleWorks, 201 Washington St. Reading, PA 19601

When: Friday and Saturday at 6:00 PM, November 20th and 21st 2020

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