Since 2014Arts Day & Community Arts Experiences
Hands-on experiences across many art forms with local artists and organizations.
EstablishedLearn more about Arts Day
Find opportunities
Classes, events, and programs, searchable by region.
Search nowFinancial assistance
Help with the cost of eligible arts experiences.
Learn howPartner with us
Schools, artists, and organizations, together.
Get startedSupport our mission
Invest in arts access for young people.
Donate
Arts Day
since2014
since2014
Welcome to SAF
Connecting Rochester youth with the arts.
SAF isn't a single arts school. We connect young people and families with Rochester's artists, cultural institutions, programs, and resources, and help remove the barriers that keep them out.
Student Arts Foundation advances equity in the arts by empowering youth from under-resourced communities with opportunities, resources, and mentorship that foster creativity, cultural engagement, and professional growth.
- Equitable accessOpportunities regardless of finances
- Creative discoveryRoom to try many art forms
- ConnectionFamilies linked to local resources
- Long-term growthMentorship, education, careers
Find an opportunity
What does your young artist want to try?
Search classes, events, programs, and resources from SAF and partner organizations across our growing regional network.
Our programs
Six connected ways we open doors.
From a first arts experience to college and careers, each program helps young people take the next step.
Since 2014
DirectoryArts Access & Resource Network
A searchable directory of classes, camps, events, and programs across the region.
GrowingSearch the directory
AccessCommunity Art Subsidy Program
Financial assistance toward eligible classes, camps, and arts events, when funding is available.
Check back soonLearn more about subsidies
Grades 9–12Scholarships & Mentorship
Support for students pursuing arts-related college study, plus guidance from mentors.
EstablishedLearn more about scholarships
Paid internshipRising Creatives Internship
A paid summer internship in creative workplaces for students entering 12th grade. Applications expected April 2027.
In developmentFollow along with Rising Creatives
PartnersCommunity Partnerships
Schools, artists, and organizations working together to reach more young people.
EstablishedPartner with SAF
Community impact
More than a decade of Arts Day.
2014
First Arts Day
400+
Students served since SAF began
100–150
Young people at Arts Day each year
8
Art forms, from ceramics to robotics
How SAF helps
From first spark to future path.
A continuum of opportunities. Young people can start anywhere, and each journey is their own.
- 01
Discover
Learn about art forms, cultural institutions, artists, and creative opportunities.
Arts Day · Directory
- 02
Experience
Take part in workshops, events, classes, performances, and cultural activities.
Arts Day · Partner programs
- 03
Access
Get help connecting to programs, scholarships, subsidies, and resources when eligible.
Subsidies · Scholarships
- 04
Develop
Build skills, confidence, creative interests, relationships, and a sense of possibility.
Mentorship · Partners
- 05
Advance
Explore mentorship, leadership, college pathways, internships, and creative careers.
Scholarships · Rising Creatives
For families
Find opportunities for your child to explore, create, and grow.
Search the directory, ask about financial assistance, or tell us what your young person is interested in.
For the community
Help make arts opportunities accessible to every young person.
Partner as a school, artist, or organization, volunteer your time, or support SAF's work.
Upcoming
Events & deadlines.
Dates appear here as they're announced and disappear once they've passed. All events
Get involved
There's a place for you here.
Families & students
Find classes, events, and programs, and ask about financial assistance.
Find opportunitiesSchools & educators
Connect students with arts experiences, partners, and teaching artists.
Partner as a schoolArts organizations
List your programs, reach new families, and collaborate on access.
Submit an opportunityTeaching artists
Teach, mentor, or take part in Arts Day and youth programs.
Share your interestDonors & sponsors
Invest in arts access, scholarships, and creative pathways.
Support SAFVolunteers & mentors
Give your time at events or guide a young person.
Volunteer
Our partners
