Mariposa’s Art believes in the power of education to create social change! Our after-school programs provide strong mentoring programs that utilize visual art, music, dance, and creative writing. Our programs focus on key health issues including conflict resolution, healthy sexuality, career and college planning, drug and alcohol education, body image, and boundary setting. We develop leadership skills in our youth through goal setting education; student-led community service projects; paid career development internships; and community art, music, and dance performances. Our programs target school sites and youth who are in need of outreach. We work with a majority of migrant family youth and English Language learners. Many of our students are struggling with issues of gang involvement, the importance of school, and making positive life choices around sexuality, tobacco, alcohol, and drug use. Mariposa’s Art programs have been specifically tailored to address the needs of the students we serve. The structure and goals of our programs include expanding students’ choices and awareness of career and college opportunities, helping them to improve their language speaking and writing skills, and allowing youth to strengthen their view of themselves and their capabilities. Through our program, our youth are able to expand their definition of themselves, to see themselves as talented, amazing, unique individuals capable of accomplishing their goals and dreams. We give students the tools necessary to flourish as leaders and create action steps to bring their goals and dreams to life.