Youth Endowment for the Arts

A few words about YEA...

Research proves that children need the arts! Test scores support the need for arts education for children and show that the arts do make a difference. Finding a way to support children’s exposure to the fine arts can change their lives.

The R. Keith and Deborah C. Summey Youth Endowment for the Arts (YEA) started in 2000 as a brand new way to enhance the educational experience of children in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. YEA works to support equitable, quality fine arts programming for Charleston Area Children.

YEA has sponsored artist in residence programs in local schools, provided opportunities for local kids to showcase their talent and even sponsored a summer “camp” program in New York City which involved a six-week residency in different artistic disciplines. Through the support of the Charleston Marathon, YEA will be able to support programs that improve equitable access for all children when it comes to fine arts exposure.
Ways of achieving the mission are ever-changing.

But, the need for YEA always exists! As you continue your visit to our web site, look for more details coming soon on exciting new ways that YEA can continue enhancing the lives of our local children through the arts.