More valley children will have opportunities to explore their creativity, thanks to a $30,000 Impact Grant from the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation to Old Town Artisan Studios (OTAS). The nonprofit organization plans to expand its Youth Art Outreach Programs, bringing hands-on art experiences to underserved and under-resourced children throughout the Coachella Valley.
OTAS provides free and reduced-cost arts education, including ceramics, painting, mixed media and more, at its campus in La Quinta and through mobile outreach programs throughout the valley. In partnership with local schools, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, and other community organizations, professional instructors bring art directly to children who might otherwise have limited access to these opportunities. Through these programs, OTAS fulfills its mission to bring transformational art experiences to those who need it most, regardless of age, ability or financial situation.
“Art gives children opportunities to try new things, express themselves, build confidence and discover their talents,” said Roccie Hill, Executive Director of Old Town Artisan Studios. “This grant will help us strengthen our programs and partnerships so we can reach more young people who may not otherwise be exposed to art.”
OTAS expects to reach about 150 to 250 additional underserved youth during the 2026–2027 program year through the funding, which will support transportation, art supplies, equipment upgrades, and improvements to the organization’s outreach classroom and mobile programming infrastructure.
“Access to arts education should be available to everyone,” said Catharine Reed, Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. “This Impact Grant will help Old Town Artisan Studios bring meaningful creative experiences directly to children in our community.”
The grant funds will help OTAS meet growing demand by reducing waitlists and expanding partnerships with schools, tribal communities and other organizations.
“Old Town Artisan Studios has developed an effective model for making arts education accessible throughout our valley,” said Jerry Upham, Vice President and General Manager of Gulf California Broadcast Company, which owns and operates KESQ News Channel 3. “That’s worth showcasing.”
Impact Grants are a partnership between News Channel 3 and the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. Representatives from both entities look for local 501(c)(3) nonprofits to recognize for their outstanding work to improve people’s lives and help those in need. Impact Grants are awarded on the concept that through service, funding and awareness, we are “Making a Difference Together.” Beyond the grant, each organization also receives media coverage about its mission across a variety of News Channel 3’s platforms, including News Channel 3 News at 4 and KESQ.com.
To learn more about Old Town Artisan Studios, visit oldtownartisanstudios.org. For more information about Impact Grants, go to www.kesq.com/life/impact-grants.
