Inspiring a Vibrant Future
Background
For 30 years, our programs have inspired thousands of Toledo youth to explore their individuality while working as a team to change their city for the better and to develop more fully into thoughtful and responsible citizens. Our YAAW alumni can be found all over Toledo and the world making a difference.
YAAW
Since 1994, Young Artists at Work (YAAW) has offered paid summer apprenticeships to area teens to learn creative skills and job skills alike and to connect to community through the creation of public art and salable works. Each year more than 40 teens from diverse neighborhoods and communities in and around Toledo come together to find a completely unique summer employment opportunity and access to an experience designed to impact for a lifetime.
Thank you to the University of Toledo Department of Art. In addition to hosting the studio space for the youth apprentices, they also provide two $2,500 scholarships to YAAW alumni that are majoring in art at the University of Toledo.
2027 Schedule
Applications for the YAAW program will open on October 6, 2026 and close on March 12, 2027. The 2027 Young Artists at Work program runs from June 21st through July 30th.
Apprentice applicants must be at least 14 years old by June 21, 2027 to be considered eligible for hire. YAAW Staff and Instructor applications will be due on February 2, 2027.
