Five Reasons to Support the Springer Academy's Wise Investment Fund on Giving Tuesday
This time of year, it seems like there’s a name for every day of the week: Black Friday…. Cyber Monday…. Free Shipping Saturday. But there’s only one day that can make a difference in a young person’s life and that’s Giving Tuesday.
Giving Tuesday, an annual international day of giving, is December 3rd. There's no better time to share how your contributions can have a lasting impact on the next generation. This year, consider supporting the Springer Theatre Academy's Wise Investment Fund — a crucial initiative dedicated to providing underserved, disadvantaged youth with access to high-quality arts education. Below, we’ve got five compelling reasons why your donation will make a meaningful difference, backed by statistics and facts about the powerful benefits of youth engagement in the arts.
(1) Boost Academic Performance and Cognitive Skills. Research shows that arts education has a significant impact on academic success. A study by the National Endowment for the Arts found that students who are highly engaged in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and three times more likely to be elected to class office. Through programs like the Springer Theatre Academy, students gain valuable skills that enhance their ability to think critically, problem-solve, and collaborate.
Participating in the arts also fosters creativity, which is linked to improved cognitive abilities. The Arts Education Partnership highlights that students who study the arts show increased performance in core subjects like math, reading, and writing. By donating to the Wise Investment Fund, you're helping students develop these essential skills that will benefit them in both academics and life.
(2) Enhance Emotional and Social Development. Engaging with the arts nurtures emotional intelligence and helps students build confidence, self-awareness, and empathy. According to Americans for the Arts, students involved in the arts are more likely to have higher levels of empathy, resilience, and emotional well-being. The creative process allows them to explore their emotions, understand others’ perspectives, and express themselves in a safe and supportive environment.
Involvement in theatre, specifically, provides opportunities for students to work together, communicate effectively, and support one another. These social skills are essential in any career and in life, helping young people to navigate relationships, overcome challenges, and find common ground with peers from diverse backgrounds. Your donation will help provide these transformative opportunities for local youth.
(3) Create Pathways to Career Opportunities. The arts aren't just about creativity; they also open doors to career possibilities. The Bureau of Economic Analysis reports that the arts and culture industries contributed over $800 billion to the U.S. economy in 2021. From performing arts to digital media, the arts are a growing field with countless career paths.
By supporting the Academy, you’re helping young people gain the skills and experience needed for careers in theatre, music, dance, stage management, and beyond. Many alumni of youth arts programs go on to pursue careers not only as performers but also in education, arts administration, marketing, and other related fields. Your gift to the Wise Investment Fund provides students with the foundation they need to turn their passions into lifelong careers.
4. Foster Inclusivity and Community Engagement
(4) Foster Inclusivity and Community Engagement. The arts bring people together across social, cultural, and economic divides. Studies show that youth arts programs play a significant role in promoting inclusivity, offering marginalized or at-risk youth the opportunity to experience a sense of belonging and connection. According to The National Endowment for the Arts, participation in community arts programs reduces juvenile crime and encourages civic engagement.
The Academy's programs emphasize inclusivity, ensuring that all youth, regardless of background or financial means, can participate. By donating to the Wise Investment Fund, you're helping to provide scholarships, transportation, and resources to ensure that every child can access the transformative power of the arts.
(5) Promote Lifelong Skills and Well-Being. The benefits of engaging with the arts extend far beyond childhood. Numerous studies indicate that arts participation contributes to a variety of life skills such as perseverance, time management, discipline, and teamwork — all of which are crucial for success in adulthood. The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies states that young people involved in the arts are more likely to engage in volunteer work, pursue higher education, and contribute positively to their communities.
Additionally, the mental health benefits of artistic engagement are well-documented. Participation in the arts has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, offering a healthy outlet for emotional expression. For many young people, the arts can be a lifeline, offering a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and joy.
How Your Donation Makes a Difference
By donating to the Academy’s Wise Investment Fund this Giving Tuesday, you are directly investing in the future of our youth. Your contribution will support scholarships, improve programming, and provide the resources necessary for creating a vibrant, inclusive arts community that equips young people with the skills and experiences they need to thrive academically, socially, and professionally.
As we celebrate this season of giving, remember that your support can have a lasting impact — not just on an individual child, but on the entire community. Together, we can ensure that the arts continue to be a gateway to opportunity, creativity, and success for the next generation.
Join us this Giving Tuesday and invest in the future of young artists. Give the gift of the arts — give the gift of opportunity.