About

"The arts empower. The arts give a voice to the voiceless. The arts help transform American communities and, as I often say, the result can be a better child, a better town, a better nation and certainly a better world." Robert L. Lynch, President and CEO, Americans for the Arts

Our House is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. We have taken the founder's childhood home and turned it into a haven for children to attend free after-school arts classes. We strongly believe art can be a life-changing experience for children, especially for those in need.

With city and school budgets cutting out the arts, this organization fills an important void. Statistics show that children who have access to after-school programs benefit from a boost in academic performance, reduction in risky behaviors, and promotion of better physical health. These programs also provide a safe environment for many working parents, whose children would otherwise have to fend for themselves for a three hour gap - or longer. Our program can fill that time with creativity, whether through gardening or arts and crafts. Our experienced arts teachers and garden experts believe in the mission and will help improve the community by starting with our kids.

Our Mission & Goals

We provide a free after-school arts program for school children aged 8 to 14 and a community garden for residents of Meriden, CT.

Our goal is to collaborate with local schools in order to serve students who would benefit most from an arts program and who may not have access to arts classes - for whatever reason.

At Our House, we want our experienced teachers to share their passion and knowledge of the creative process and the beneficial aspects of gardening. Our goal is for students and teachers to have an unforgettable and life-changing experience.