Homer Council on the Arts continues with another round of art programs for youth starting this month. The mission of HCOA is to provide opportunities for everyone in the community to experience and participate in the arts. To meet that mission we need continual support from community members, businesses and grantors. 

The Homer Foundation has once again generously donated to the HCOA youth art program, which helps HCOA keep the participation fees down and financial assistance an option. The Homer Foundation consists of a many different funds created and sustained by families, individuals and businesses. 

Specifically, the Jessica Stevens Memorial Fund will support admission fees for the visual art and theatre skills classes that will be offered after school January through May. HomerARTS Camp returns in early June offering a variety of musical genres, visual art, ceramics and dance. The Homer Foundation’s JEMCO Fund and A Music Education Fund in Memory of Renda Horn will support the arts camp. 

Starting this month, for ages 8-14, Gus Beck will be teaching Handbuilding with Clay, and after spring break in March, Rebecca Pottenbaum will teach Latin American Folk Art. The Theatre Skills program, directed by Marc Oliver, will start with an audition for skill levels on Jan. 12. The theatre program is for ages 10-17, and will focus on contemporary acting with a performance scheduled in May. For details on these after school programs, please call HCOA 235-4288, or visit HomerArt.org.

In addition to the Homer Foundation funds, HCOA is soliciting support from additional businesses and individuals. Proceeds from The 1960s Show, will also support youth programming. This production will feature the music, dance, comedy, drama and icons of the ’60s on the Mariner stage, Jan. 24 and 25. An evening of local talent guaranteed to be full of laughs as well as tears. 

Thank you to the Homer Foundation and to all who support HCOA programming, whether it is with a donation, in the classroom, on the stage or in the audience.

Gail Edgerly, executive director

Homer Council on the Arts