Help sought to expand children's art center

But the program has become so popular that it has outgrown its small space. A solution might be available, but it will require donations of time and money.

New Day Art, run by Tracie and Bob Killar of St. John/St. Ann's parish, "gets the children off the streets where violent crimes are threatening their safety. There are many children in the South End with no other place to go when school gets out," said Mrs. Killar. "When they're out on the streets, they are at risk of gang involvement, drug use, neglect, violence and traumatic or other life-threatening risks."

Cramped

Until recently, the space accommodated the budding young artists of the South End; now, there are so many participants that the staff has had to turn children away.

"It's heartbreaking when I can't let them all in," Mrs. Killar admitted. "We've had to turn away as many as 12 children on any given day. They come to us because they trust us. They know that they will be safe, get a snack and be cared for while they are learning art skills."

New room

"All three floors need to be completely gutted and opened up to create the kind of art space we're looking for," she said.

With the program's limited funding, those costs cannot be met. In order to be able to keep the building, the Killars have embarked upon finding volunteers to help defray the costs of renovation and help with the work.

"We are asking help from individuals, professionals and companies willing to donate their time," she said, adding that estimates put total costs at about $120,000.

Painting a dream

To do that, she needs money and time. "People could donate even a few hours of their time," she noted. "That would make a big difference."

General contractors, laborers, construction workers, roofers, masons and electricians are all needed. Donations of dumpsters, appliances and building supplies would also be appreciated.

Deadline

"The children in our neighborhood have benefitted from New Day Art for the past two years. I am so proud of how much each one of them has accomplished. I hope we can keep it going."

(For a volunteer packet, contact Tracie Killar at 462-7914 or via e-mail at [email protected].)

(09-26-02) [[In-content Ad]]