Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf congratulated Arts for Oakland Kids (formerly known as Oakland Fund for the Arts) during its 20th anniversary with an official letter:
“Since 1996, Arts for Oakland Kids has raised more than $625,000 in grants for arts education programs in 80 under-served public schools throughout the City,” the letter stated. “These grants have helped fund over 145 unique arts programs that range from after school music classes to workshops like Gear Girls that introduce young women to the exciting world of industrial arts…”
“Working alongside local Oakland artists and other local organizations like CalShakes and Berkeley Rep, Arts for Oakland Kids has provided a critical link between the arts community and the up and coming artists waiting to be discovered in our public school system.”
The letter went on to say that more than 20,000 school kids have been reached as (the group) continues to fund innovative arts education programs that inspire and exite.
“I wish them all the best in the coming years, and hope they continue to better arts education in our community.”