FAQ’S

Where is ArtHouse Located in Halton?
Currently we are in Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville – there’s no “one” location – we operate at approximately 35 accessible Neighbourhoods and schools annually. Our programs are focused on our Neighbourhood, Community and Agency Partnership Programs. We are very grateful to each of our Venue hosts that provide us with their space free of charge.

In Summer 2022 we were excited to be back to “LIVE” Programming including Camp ArtHouse at Sheridan College.

What age groups do your programs support?
Kids 7-11 and Youth 12-17 years of age.
Why 7-17?
Our Research is telling us that the arts is a vital tool to engage our participants, so start early. ArtHouse Programs help cultivate imagination and expression and enhance coping skills and resilience. Over time they can reduce anxiety and stress contributing to positive mental health.  
Can anyone sign up?
Yes, for any of our open-registration programs, but our Front-of-the-Line Policy gives priority to children whose families may not have the discretionary resources to access fee-related programs.
What is the ArtHouse Arts “Curriculum”?
Multi-disciplined – Visual Arts, Improv, Theatre Performance, Instruments, Singing, Cooking and Environmental Programs, etc.
When do the Programs take place?
Throughout the year with brief breaks between seasons.
How long do the programs run?
Programs usually run weekly for 1 hour – 1 1/2 hours and Camp ArtHouse (one week – full day).
Do children get a snack?
Yes, often snacks are provided.
How are each of the programs managed?
• Neighbourhood Programs – our Program Managers and ArtHouse Instructors;

• Community Programs – partnerships with Agencies (e.g. CAS, ROCK, HMC, KSM and the YMCA of Oakville)

What else is special about your programs?
Many of our programs end with a Mini-performance or special display for parents, siblings and friends.
Is ArtHouse a Charitable Organization?
Yes – ArtHouse was incorporated as ArtHouse for Children and Youth in 2009 and received its Charitable status in early 2010.
How do you know your Programs have been successful?
  • High retention rates at each program;
  • Over 65% of our participants return to more than one program over their time with ArtHouse;
  • Our Children, their parents, and our Program Partners help us with Testimonials:
    • Consistently we hear “Confidence”, “Happy”, “Program Quality” and “Creativity”.
What is the Annual Budget?

In Fiscal 2023 our goal is to raise $460,000 of which over 84% goes directly to our Programs:

ARTHOUSE CRA CHARITIES LISTING

How is ArtHouse Funded?

Government Grants, other granting organizations, Foundations, Sponsors, Individuals – and generous communities!!

Are your Financials Audited?

We are proud to say that we have provided our stakeholders with Audited Statements since 2012.

Does ArtHouse hold Events?

Our Festival Series is held annually where we try to have two special events, always with the arts as a major focus.

We would always welcome a “third party” fundraising event.

Do other “ArtHouses” exist in Halton?

We are not aware of any other organizations that offer a wide-variety of FREE Arts-based Programs throughout the community.

What makes your programs different?
  • Our programs are free, safe, and accessible;
  • We recruit professional Instructors who not only bring their gift of their art, but they try to bring out the very best in each participant.
What Organizations do you work with?

Many, including ROCK, HDSB, Halton Community Housing Corporation, Independent Cooperatives, Halton Multicultural Council, Kerr Street Mission, Children’s Aid Foundation of Halton, Halton Environment Network, Burlington Green and the YMCA of Oakville.

Are there other communities where you would like to be?

Our Mission is to continue to grow our programming throughout the Halton Region.

Any final comments from ArtHouse?

October 2022, we celebrated our sixth year of Accreditation with Imagine Canada Accreditation for excellence in nonprofit accountability, transparency and governance – we are now implementing our 5-Year renewal application. Our ongoing goal is to exceed expectations in governance and programming.

We continue to research the powerful connection between the arts and positive social, physical and emotional well-being.

We are grateful to all of our wonderful Stakeholders.

Thank you for “investing” in our Children and Youth.