FAQ’S

Where is ArtHouse Located in Halton?
Currently we are in Acton, Burlington, Milton and Oakville – there’s no “one” location – we operate at approximately 25 accessible locations throughout the year. Our programs are focused on our Community and HUBs and we also work with a number of Partner Agencies. We are very grateful to each of our Venue hosts that provide us with their space often free of charge.

This Summer 2026 we are excited to be running Camp ArtHouse at Sheridan College (Oakville) and St. Paul’s United Church (Milton), a Cooking Camp in Burlington and our first ever Visual Arts Camp in Camp Veselka in Acton. Our Fall Programs begin in Mid-September and are listed on our Road Map on our Home Page.

What age groups do your programs support?
Children and youth 7-17 and new in the Fall of 2026 – Seniors.
Why those Age groups?
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.  And in September 2026, we are excited to be supporting isolated seniors – we know that arts programs can provide an engaging social environment that supports both mental and physical health that can help mitigate the harmful effects of isolation, such as depression, anxiety, and accelerated cognitive decline.
Can anyone sign up?
Our Front-of-the-Line Policy gives priority to children whose families may not have the discretionary resources to access fee-related programs. Our Seniors Programming will be held at specific locations throughout Halton.
What is the ArtHouse Arts “Curriculum”?
Multi-disciplined – Visual Arts, Improv, Theatre Performance, Instruments, Singing, Cooking, Fashion Design 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 (two weeks – full day).
Do children get a snack?
Yes, snacks are provided at most programs.
How are each of the programs managed?
• Community and Hub Programs – our Program Managers and ArtHouse Instructors;

• gency Programs – partnerships (e.g. CAS, ROCK, HMC 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 (updated to ArtHouse Halton in June 2026) 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 Surveys and Testimonials:
    • Consistently we hear “Confidence”, “Happy”, “Program Quality” and “Creativity”.
What is the Annual Budget?
In Fiscal 2027 our goal is to raise $552,000 of which over 84% goes directly to our Programs.
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 always with the arts and the involvement of our young people as major areas of 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 Region of Halton.
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, Children’s Aid Foundation of Halton 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?
In 2026, we celebrated our 10th year of Imagine Canada Accreditation for excellence in nonprofit accountability, transparency and governance.

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, Youth and Seniors.