Creative Space

Creative Space: Family Centre Art-Based Programs

The Family Centre Arts Program is a free, community-based initiative that uses music, theatre, and visual arts to support resilience, mental well-being, and meaningful connection among children, youth, and their caregivers.

The program includes three creative streams—Music Academy, Mini Act Theatre, and Creative Visual Arts—all offered at the Family Centre. Each stream provides a safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive space where participants can express themselves, build skills, and strengthen their sense of belonging.

By removing barriers to participation and fostering supportive peer and mentor relationships, the Family Centre Arts Program directly supports the Resilience Project’s mission to build a strong, connected, and supportive community where children, youth, and families can thrive.

Age group served: 6–24 years

Program Impact

Our arts programs support children and youth to build confidence, express themselves creatively, strengthen peer relationships, and feel a greater sense of belonging. Participants show improved emotional regulation, increased school and community engagement, and reduced social isolation, informed by ongoing evaluation and participant feedback.

Mini Act Theatre

Mini Act Theatre is a free, inclusive theatre program for children and youth ages 6–18, offering weekly workshops that explore acting, improvisation, storytelling, and creative collaboration.

Open to all skill levels, the program supports children and youth from diverse backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences, including English language learners and those who may be new to creative expression. Using trauma-informed, play-based, and movement-focused approaches, facilitators create a space where participants feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow.

Through theatre and collective storytelling, young people build confidence, communication skills, emotional awareness, and a strong sense of belonging. Each term concludes with a Celebration of the Arts, where participants share an original short play with family and community members.

Age group served: 6–18

Music Academy

The Music Academy is a free, inclusive music program for children and youth ages 6–18 that supports creativity, confidence, and emotional well-being through music. Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate, making music a shared and relational experience.

Running most of the year, the program offers weekly sessions where participants explore instruments (including ukulele, guitar, drums, and keyboards), play music together, write songs, and perform as a group. The emphasis is on fun, creativity, and belonging, helping young people stay engaged while developing musical and life skills.

The program removes barriers by providing instruments at no cost and by welcoming participants from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Through music-making, participants build resilience, discipline, and a strong sense of community.

Age group served: 6–18

Creative Visual Art

Creative Space is a free, welcoming visual arts program where children and youth can create art in a safe, supportive studio environment. Participants are encouraged to explore painting, drawing, crafts, and other creative activities at their own pace, with gentle guidance from experienced artists.

The focus is on the creative process, not perfection. Children learn to try new ideas, take creative risks, and see mistakes as part of learning and growing. Each child is supported to develop their own style and express themselves in ways that feel right for them.

Creative Space is a mixed-age program, where younger children and teens create alongside one another, building connection and confidence. Caregivers are welcome to join—especially during Family Day open-house sessions, which invite parents, siblings, and caregivers to create art together and strengthen family bonds.

The program is inclusive and supportive of children and youth with different needs and experiences. Many participants find Creative Space to be a calming, creative outlet where they feel safe, accepted, and valued.

Age group served: 6–18 years

Get involved:

Register For a Program            Support the Creative Space             Partner with the Family Centre