Empowering Youth Through Art: Art As Mentorship Secures Significant Funding for Future Growth

Art As Mentorship is thrilled to announce an unprecedented funding milestone, raising $500,000 to support its mission of empowering youth through the transformative power of the arts. Founded in 2017 by Enrique Chi, the lead guitarist and vocalist of the acclaimed Kansas City band Making Movies, the organization has tirelessly worked to inspire young people from diverse backgrounds. Art As Mentorship was conceived from the success of a music education camp created in collaboration with the Mattie Rhodes Center, which sparked enthusiasm for music among underserved youth, leading to the question, “What’s next?” This pivotal inquiry catalyzed the launch of their flagship program, The Rebel Song Academy, in 2018. Through this initiative, students not only learn songwriting but also have the opportunity to record their music with GRAMMY-winning producer Steve Berlin of Los Lobos. The newly raised funds will enhance Art As Mentorship's programming, allowing for the expansion of workshops that teach critical entrepreneurial skills, particularly through partnerships like the one with Barkley. These workshops offer invaluable insights that extend beyond the realm of music, equipping students with the discipline, confidence, and business acumen necessary for success in any path they choose. As Art As Mentorship continues to elevate the voices of the next generation of artists, this funding ensures that they can further their reach and impact, fostering creativity and self-expression in communities that need it most.