Arts Ignite

Formerly called Artists Striving to End Poverty (ASTEP), Arts Ignite empowers marginalized youth by providing artist-led educational programming that cultivates creativity, builds confidence, and promotes positive social change through the arts. The non-profit’s innovative approach pairs professional teaching artists with underprivileged communities to create safe spaces where young people can explore their voices, develop crucial life skills, and process their experiences through creative expression.

Operating across NYC’s five boroughs and through multiple global initiatives, Arts Ignite serves thousands of youth annually through in-school residencies, after-school workshops, and community partnerships. Their programs focus on multiple artistic disciplines—including visual arts, music, dance, and theater—while emphasizing social-emotional learning, cultural responsiveness, and community building. By making quality arts education accessible to those who need it most, Arts Ignite transforms lives by nurturing both artistic talent and essential skills for future success.