Old Town Artisan Studios Receives $30K Grant To Support Arts Education For Coachella Valley Youth

PALM DESERT, CA — Old Town Artisan Studios, a nonprofit organization focused on providing arts education to undeserved and under-funded youth throughout the Coachella Valley, received a $30,000 Impact Grant, it was announced Monday.

"Art gives children opportunities to try new things, express themselves, build confidence and discover their talents," Roccie Hill, the nonprofit's executive director, said in a statement. "This grant will help us strengthen our programs and partnerships so we can reach more young people who may not otherwise be exposed to art."

OTAS provides free and reduced-costs arts education, such as ceramics, painting and mixed media, at its facility in La Quinta and through its mobile outreach programs across the region. The organization partners with local schools and community organizations, including Boys and Girls Club and YMCA, and uses professional instructors to bring art to children.

The grant will help the organization reduce waitlists and expand partnerships with schools, tribal communities and other organizations. In addition, the funds will help with transportation, art supplies, equipment upgrades and improvements to the organization's outreach.

The $30,000 grant will help reach a range of 150 to 250 additional children during the 2026-27 program year, officials said.

"Access to arts education should be available to everyone," Catharine Reed, vice president of charitable programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, said in a statement. "This Impact Grant will help Old Town Artisan Studios bring meaningful creative experiences directly to children in our community."

The Impact Grant is a partnership between the Berger Foundation and KESQ News Channel 3, who recognize local nonprofits for their work in improving people's lives and helping those in need.

More information about Old Town Artisan Studios can be found at oldtownartisanstudios.org.