Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: House of Futures
Legal Name (if Different): House of Futures Inc.
Also Known As: HOF
Mailing Address: 51 E 126th Street
City: New York
State: NY
Postal Code: 10035
Main Phone: (646) 653-2863
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.houseoffutures.org
Employer ID Number: 88-3009615
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/2/2024
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Empowering Young Creatives: Entry Points to Artistry
Project Description:

Project Description:

Our project aims to combat economic and social inequalities by providing access to quality arts education for underserved Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQ+ youth in New York City.

Problem:

Limited access: Over 50% of Black and Latino youth in NYC experience low-income or poverty, restricting access to creative opportunities. Additionally, only 5% of the national arts workforce reflects these communities, highlighting systemic underrepresentation.
Mental health challenges: Higher rates of depression, anxiety, and trauma among marginalized youth can hinder artistic expression and access to arts education.
Lack of representation: Underrepresentation of artists of color fuels stereotypes and limits visibility for young creators, hindering their development and sense of belonging.

Solution:

Our project addresses these issues through a three-pronged approach:

1. Outreach
Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with schools, community centers, and youth-serving organizations to reach diverse populations.
Targeted Outreach: Utilize workshops, events, and referral programs specifically for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth.
Digital Engagement: Leverage social media and online platforms to connect with young creators and raise awareness about the project.

2. Relationship Building:
Mentorship Program: Pair young creators with professional artists of color for guidance, career exploration, and inspiration.
Community-Based Projects: Empower participants to address social issues and advocate for change through art, fostering community engagement.
Teaching Opportunities: Provide opportunities for young creators to share their skills and inspire others, building a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

3. Sustainability:
Diversified Funding: Secure funding through grants, corporate sponsorships, and individual donations.
Social Enterprise: Explore revenue-generating initiatives aligned with the project’s mission, like art sales or workshops for the public.
Partnership Building: Collaborate with organizations and businesses for ongoing support and resource sharing.

Our Impact:
This project will empower underserved youth to express themselves creatively, develop artistic skills, and pursue careers in the arts. The project’s focus on mentorship, community engagement, and advocacy will help build self-confidence, foster a sense of belonging, and address social issues through creative expression. Ultimately, this project aims to close the opportunity gap in the arts and create a more inclusive and representative industry for generations to come.

Total Project Budget: $208,000.00

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Grants, Sponsorships, & Private Donations

Project Duration: 2024-2025
Geographical Area Served: NYC Metro Area
Age Group To Be Served: 7-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Remi
Contact Last Name: Odunsi
Contact Title: Program Director
Contact Phone: 312-404-1140
Contact Email: info@houseoffutures.org