We’re changing the world one child at a time.
Our one-of-a-kind performing arts programming brings students from different communities together to develop music, dance, drama, and songwriting skills while building empathy and character. Our desire is for every child we work with to know they are valuable, creative, and capable of changing the world for the better.
Our History
Kaleo Arts began as a worship arts program for 45 kids at Kensington Church in Troy, MI in 2002. In 2016, we were invited to help a nearby public school who was looking for support in the arts due to budget issues. This was a pivotal moment as the new launch opened our eyes to the kids in our community and their untapped potential. We fell in love with these young souls and celebrated each win with them, from singing a solo for the first time to standing up in front of their peers as they auditioned for a lead role. When we made the move to invite kids from our church and public school to come together for class, we were hooked! This new model would pave the way forward.
Since then Kaleo Arts has grown to several different initiatives reaching over 650 kids weekly at multiple locations including public schools in Pontiac, MI and Santa Fe, New Mexico as well as churches in Detroit, New York, Vancouver, and Brazil.
A Unique Model of Shared Responsibility
One twist that makes Kaleo Arts stand out is our vision for inviting kids from different cultures, communities, and socio-economic backgrounds to participate in class together. Students from the host school remain after class and students from neighboring communities that have transportation are invited to attend class. Because our model is donation based, students that are financially able to contribute do so and those that need support are given scholarships. This has created a beautiful bridge between kids who otherwise would not know each other. The sharing of resources and sense of community is inspiring.
