Urban smARTS is an intervention program designed to divert youth from entering the juvenile justice system. The San Antonio City Council initiated the program, bringing together the city's Department of Arts and Cultural Affairs with the Department of Community Initiatives, which provides case management services to youth. The partnering of departments has resulted in a multidisciplinary program that combines innovative arts activities with conflict resolution training and other prevention services. At each of seven school sites, three artists and five caseworkers are joined by a volunteer and a school teacher to lead daily after-school, 2-hour classes, using visual arts, dance, theater, literature, music, photography and videography. Activities, which include field trips, are tailored to the needs of each site. Participants are encouraged to get involved in a number of different classes as a way of discovering where they feel most comfortable. While each 14-week session throughout the school year culminates in a performance or exhibition, it is the process that is emphasized to show young people that steps have to be taken to achieve something. "Urban smARTS has been effective in changing the kids' attitudes and increasing self-esteem," reports Program Manager Berti Rodriguez Vaughan. "TheyÌre realizing there are other possibilities for them."