Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Arts In Reach (AIR)
Legal Name (if Different): Arts In Reach: Encouraging Growth Through the Arts
Also Known As: AIR
Mailing Address: PO Box 236
City: Portsmouth
State: NH
Postal Code: 03802
Main Phone: 6034334278
Main Fax: n/a
Organization Website: artsinreach.org
Employer ID Number: 02-0507428
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 19, 2026
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Creating Belonging Through the Arts
Project Description:

Arts In Reach (AIR) is a creative youth development program, closing opportunity gaps through free, inclusive arts programs that nurture creativity, foster belonging, and build the protective factors youth facing adversity need to thrive into adulthood.

AIR provides free, innovative community arts programs, mentoring, and transportation for youth navigating barriers to success, including poverty, social isolation, and limited access to enrichment opportunities. At a time when youth mental health challenges are rising nationwide, AIR offers a safe, inclusive refuge where young people find belonging and support during the hours they might otherwise be isolated. Here, art serves as more than enrichment—it becomes a proven tool for self-exploration, constructive expression, and connection to the larger community.

AIR’s programs embody national best practices in creative youth development, reflecting emerging research on how culture-centered, community-based arts experiences support both well-being and well-becoming for young people.

Professional artists teach across a wide range of mediums, serving simultaneously as instructors, mentors, and role models. They adapt curricula based on youth voices, stories, and needs, creating programming that is responsive, affirming, and culturally relevant. These experiences nurture artistic skill and confidence, transform stress into expression, and establish artful sanctuaries of belonging where youth form meaningful connections with peers and trusted adults. Programs culminate in public showcases that strengthen community bonds and elevate youth voices.

A $10,000 investment will provide approximately 60 youth with access to a season of programming, covering teaching artists, transportation, and materials that make participation possible.

Through expressive projects, field trips, and service-learning opportunities, participants discover pathways into adulthood while building confidence, identity, and resilience. Long-term alumni data shows sustained gains in confidence, connection, and direction, with many participants continuing into higher education, creative fields, and community leadership—realizing their potential well beyond their time at AIR.

Total Project Budget: $326,267

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Foundations & Grants: $145,000 ($75,000 committed to date); Businesses (Partnerships and In-Kind): $25,000 ($15,000 committed to date); Individual donors: $67,000 ($15,000 committed); Special Events: $70,000 (event in October, based on prior years); Interest $767 ($767 committed); State Income $9,000 ($9,000 committed).

Project Duration: One year
Geographical Area Served: Southeastern New Hampshire and Maine
Age Group To Be Served: 10-18 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.):
Contact First Name: Jennifer
Contact Last Name: Minicucci
Contact Title: executive director
Contact Phone: 603-433-4278
Contact Email: jennifer@artsinreach.org