Sankofa Kuumba Cultural Arts Consortium
89 Willow Brook RoadCromwellCT06416860-635-0725860-632-0391

Program: After-School and Summer Arts Program Year Started: 1989 Focus: Dance & Music Youth Served: 500 Ages: 8-21 Budget: $74,000 Sankofa Kuumba Cultural Arts Consortium offers young street people the chance to develop their cultural awareness through traditional African dance and drumming. The After-School and Summer Arts Program provides children with a familylike setting and a place to belong. Workshops are held twice a week for 3 1/2 hours during the school year and daily in the summer at the executive directorÌs home. Before participating in classes, youth must sign a contract affirming that they understand what is expected of them. They are then integrated into a pre-existing group of dancers and drummers. The Program also focuses on life skills and how to use the arts to earn a living. Business, writing, computer and marketing skills are emphasized. "Youth are coming to understand what society is about and what choices they have," says Executive Director Christine Dixon. "They are gaining a greater understanding of their culture and community and are seeing job possibilities." Mothers and grandmothers of participants serve as volunteers and, in addition to assisting, share their life experiences.