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Creative Connections

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What is Creative Connections?

Creative Connections is an expressive art program to inspire teens within the juvenile justice system and children in the community. By pairing volunteers with young individuals, the initiative cultivates a supportive environment where creativity becomes a catalyst for personal growth and positive relationships. Through collaborative coloring sessions and craft-making activities, participants not only explore their artistic abilities but also develop vital social and emotional skills, fostering resilience and self-confidence. You do NOT need to be an artist to participate!

Creative Connections Video

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    How do I get involved?

    BECOME A VOLUNTEER

    Volunteer Commitment: Volunteers are welcome to come to any of the events as they have time to do so. Consistency is appreciated, but not required.

    Sign up here to volunteer to help with the art class!

    Volunteer Description:

    • Juvenile Mentorship Art Class

      • Monday 9:15 AM - 10:45 AM
      • The program is held at BYU in room WSC 5519.
      • During this class, you have the opportunity to mentor teens (12-17) and encourage the development of life skills needed to reduce recidivism (tendency to release into criminal behavior) through fun weekly art projects. Spanish speakers are especially encouraged to join.

    Step 1:

    To get involved, please email creativeconnections@byu.edu.

    Step 2:

    Please complete this mandatory 25-minute Minor Protection Training before you begin working with this program.

    BECOME A LEADER

    Volunteer Leader Description: There are two kinds of leadership positions: Lead Program Director and Program Director. A program only has one Lead Program Director, but multiple Program Directors. Leaders are generally responsible for overseeing recruitment, retention, and reflection with volunteers. They also coordinate service with community partners and ensure their program runs smoothly. Volunteer leaders may also share the responsibilities of volunteers as outlined in the Volunteer Description. For more information, visit our section called Be a Leader!

    Volunteer Leader Commitment: In addition to volunteering, Volunteer leaders commit to a 1-hour monthly team meeting to discuss needs and make plans for the program.

    Step 1:

    Apply to become a leader by completing the application below:

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    Program Director Application

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    Contact Info

    Directors

    Available by email at creativeconnections@byu.edu

    Lead Program Director, Debby Nava

    385-252-8697
    Office Hour: Thursdays 9:00-10:00 AM

    Aubrey Fowles

    929-270-5504

    Katie Shapiro

    385-384-7721

    Katie Farnsworth

    Sydney Reading

    385-529-7828
    I LOVE Creative Connections! I am changed as I choose to connect with and love teenagers who often have it much harder than me. They are my heroes. I love attending the program each Monday and feel I can really making a difference there. I also love the volunteers who go and feel that we foster connections that allow all participants to see and be their best selves. I would recommend every BYU student volunteer with Creative Connections.
    Abby