Mary Toews, a former member of our Club, and the Executive Director/Founder of Mari's Place for the Arts along Joe Marine, gave a presentation at our meeting on May 10th. Joe is currently the President of the Rotary Club of South Everett/Mukilteo and Mayor of Mukilteo. they last visited us in October 2022 and returned to update us on Mari's Place for the Arts. (photos from October 2022).
Mari's Place for the Arts is a creative space for Children and Teens. Joe has been on the Board for the past five years. Their mission is to foster creativity and self-confidence in students through art and culture programs for underprivileged children. Several former students have returned after going to college to help Mari's Place for the Arts.
The youth that they serve represent 71% latino, 13% white, 13% asian and 1% black. The student impact: 89% increased self-confidence; 74% increased skills; 50% increased engagement and 58% improved grades. Their partners include Snohomish County, Everett School District, National Endowment for the Arts, Sea Mar, DSHS and the Lake Stevens School District.
Other partners are being sought with other schools, both public and private. How they are funded: In 2020 - $208,373; 2021- $327,972; 2022 - $242,945 2023 - $323.663 with a sustainability goal of $485,000. Originally, Mary started this using her own funds for over ten years. Over the years, the Board has been able to increase her salary and hire a couple of employees. An auction is scheduled in October in Mukilteo. Joe talked about "Ways to Get Involved" such as volunteering, serving on the Board, donating, internships, awareness and partnerships.