Collier County is rich in cultural resources; yet, within the county there are small communities and areas in our backyard that do not have access to the arts. Despite geographic and economic constraints, we feel that all local residents should have equal access to cultural opportunities.

The United Arts Council began its community outreach programming in Immokalee several years ago. With the opening of the Immokalee Ceramics Studio, the Council became the community's only arts resource. From basic instruction in ceramics at the studio, our outreach services have expanded greatly during the past few years. We now take cultural programs to a variety of locations.

Working with various community partners in Immokalee, the Council has provided instruction in the visual arts, dance, music and theater to at-risk youth. The Council also secured grant funding to develop and install a large ceramic tile mural.

The Council partners in several after-school programs for at-risk students in public schools. Instruction in music, dance, theater and the visual arts is provided through this program, along with special performances. Our after-school programs currently are in place for students from 11 schools targeted by the Collier County Public School system as having large populations of at-risk students.

Each year the Council partners, with several agencies, hold a Summer Arts Camp in Immokalee. More than 150 children from migrant farm-worker families enjoy this camp every summer.

At the United Arts Council, we strive to identify the needs in the community and access resources to meet the needs. Our outreach services will continue in keeping with our mission:

Enriching lives and strengthening the community through the power of the arts

For more information, contact Andy Browne at 239-263-8242.