Incorporated in 2019, Noteworthy Youth is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization aimed at bridging a gap that exists for Austin youth. In many parts of Chicago, especially in lower economic communities, arts programing and after-school activities are severely lacking compared to those found in the suburbs and in most other states. Disinvestment in arts education in the Chicago schools began in 1979, and this lack of funding is still apparent today in the Austin community schools. This means that westside youth have few opportunities to access quality arts programs either in or out of school.

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After 15 years of teaching band in the public schools and six years of working and volunteering with non-profits in urban arts outreach programs, our Founder was led to create an organization to help fill this need for music and arts programming in the Austin community.  Such programming leads to further social and intellectual development. Access to such programming is, therefore, a matter of equity.  At Noteworthy Youth our vision is to inspire and equip young people to develop as musicians, life-long learners, and self-confident young adults leading to enriched lives and transformed communities.

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Despite the pandemic, we began working with young people in 2020. We strive to become a second home for our youth, a place where students feel safe physically and emotionally. Building community is a goal of Noteworthy Youth and we will work with families to mentor and support our participants. We value partnerships with area organizations to provide needed resources to best serve our families. Please reach out if you are interested in working with us.