Tools for Tomorrow’s Picasso Circle VISIONARIES recently celebrated both TFT’s 25th anniversary and founder Rachel Druten’s 90th birthday at a cocktail party at the lovely Bighorn home of Barbara Rogers and Gary Geske.
Tools for Tomorrow provides its free after-school arts-literacy program to students ages 8 to 11 throughout the Coachella Valley. Now serving students in 27 elementary schools, the enrichment program integrates art, creative writing, music and theater. All students receive their own art-supply kits to take home after their sessions. This summer, TFT began its first program in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club.
Since many students missed critical years of reading instruction during the COVID-19 closures, Tools for Tomorrow is introducing literature-inspired art to promote reading. By creating hands-on art projects, writing prose and poetry, performing plays and learning music appreciation, TFT students develop communication skills and self-esteem. At year’s end, students present art exhibitions and perform plays for their families and communities.
Tools for Tomorrow’s program helps foster feelings of belonging and connecting—something that is especially important following the COVID-19-related student mental-health crisis. Studies show that elementary school students who participate in arts-education programs are more engaged, improve their writing skills and have fewer disciplinary problems.
Volunteers are sought to assist classroom teachers in ensuring that every student feels seen and heard.
“Celebrate Friendship!” is Tools for Tomorrow’s gala; it will take place at 5 p.m., Monday, Feb. 26, at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Casino Spa in Rancho Mirage. TFT will honor local cultural leader Joe Giarrusso with the Vision for the Future Award, created by Karen and Tony Barone. The champagne reception will include a silent auction with fabulous items ranging from golf and dining at Bighorn to Swarovski-covered purses, as well as Coachella Valley Firebirds and CVRep tickets. Hosted by KESQ News Channel 3’s Patrick Evans and directed by Joyce Bulifant, the dinner concert will feature performances by Francesca Amari, Gilmore Rizzo and TFT students. Dancing will follow.
To become a gala sponsor or volunteer, place a digital tribute ad, buy tickets or join VISIONARIES, visit toolsfortomorrow.org, or call 760-601-3954.
This was submitted on behalf of Tools for Tomorrow by Suzanne Fromkin.
