Creative Solutions

Creative Solutions is an arts-as-workforce intervention program for youth who have encountered the justice system.

Trauma informed methodology

Once a young person is convicted of a crime, the opportunity gap widens exponentially, making it even more difficult for youth to chart their own path. More than 75% of youth in the juvenile system have experienced traumatic victimization such as physical abuse, domestic violence, and traumatic neglect, leaving them ever more vulnerable for mental health disorders and post-traumatic stress.

Tapping into greatness

Creative Solutions uses visual, performing and digital arts to help adjudicated youth tap into their inherent greatness by improving job skills, promoting a positive self-image and increasing social and emotional development. Creative Solutions has worked with some 14,000 Dallas youth over a quarter-century and recently expanded to Tarrant County.

IMPACT OF CREATIVE SOLUTIONS

60% In Texas, more than 60 percent of juvenile offenders end up in trouble again within three years of probation or release.
10% recidivism rate over 8 years, as compared to average of 38% for other intervention programs

On average, individual social skills improved by:

13%

Engagement

10%

Communication

9%

Assertion

6%

Empathy

As a result of participation in Creative Solutions, youth agree that

82%

I can better express my ideas and feelings

76%

I believe what I create positively impacts others

72%

I take creative risks with my own personal expression

70%

I feel like I contribute positively to my community

Participating in Creative Solutions

The summer intensive program takes place over multiple weeks in the summer. Youth are referred by their parole officer.

Supporting Creative Solutions:

We would love for you to support this important work that helps adjudicated youth tap into their greatness. Donations can be made safely and securely online, and you can designate your gift specifically for this program.

Make a gift to Creative Solutions.

Creative Solutions is made possible by: