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NeON Arts
NeON Arts
Overview
NeON Arts is a program of the New York City Department of Probation (DOP), in partnership with Renaissance Youth Center, that integrates the arts into the seven Neighborhood Opportunity Networks (NeONs)—community-based probation centers across New York City. The program empowers local stakeholders to select arts projects tailored to their communities, engaging clients and neighbors in activities that support educational outcomes and enhance employment opportunities.
Through meaningful arts initiatives, participants gain transferable skills and build positive peer relationships, enriching their local communities. NeON Arts workshops are open to young people aged 16–24, including those on probation as well as other local youth.
Class Schedule:
Interested in signing up for NeON Arts? Check out the links and flyer below for more information.
Learn More
Pathway to Employment
NeON Arts equips young people with essential 21st-century job skills that employers value, such as creative collaboration, visual literacy, and interdisciplinary critical thinking. These competencies help prepare participants for the workforce.
The Impact of Arts
A study by the University of Pennsylvania's School of Social Policy & Practice shows that providing arts programming in underserved neighborhoods can significantly enhance public safety. Access to arts initiatives in these communities has been linked to:
- A 14% decrease in cases of child abuse and neglect
- An 18% increase top-level English and Math scores
- An 18% decrease in the serious crime rate
A Collaborative Approach
NeON Arts, in collaboration with Renaissance Youth Center, facilitates grant-making and partners with local arts organizations and NeON stakeholders to ensure projects benefit the entire community. The program features a final showcase, career opportunities, local arts workshops, and concerts. By leveraging public and private funding, NeON Arts maximizes resources based on community needs as determined by local stakeholders.
