Spark Central (original) (raw)

Spark Central breaks the opportunity barrier.

We believe that everyone, regardless of income, deserves access to creative learning opportunities and innovative technologies. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one-third of Spokane’s West Central residents live in poverty. Spark Central offers membership, youth programs, and community events at no charge so that everyone has the chance to explore visual and literary arts, engineering, and robotics and follow where their creativity leads.

Spark Central fills the achievement gap for low-income youth.

We often confuse giftedness with opportunity. High-income parents spend 85% more than low-income families on their children’s extracurricular enrichment. By sixth grade, youth born into poverty typically suffer a 6,000-hour learning gap. Spark Central stands in this gap with programs where youth across socioeconomic boundaries come together and learn without limitations.

Spark Central inspires tomorrow’s creative thinkers.

Schools’ high-stakes test prep comes at a steep cost to the arts and creative thinking. Many extracurricular programs are “pay-to-play,” so under-resourced youth miss out on chances to flex their creative muscles. At Spark Central, youth develop the problem-solving skills and the confidence needed for an ever-changing tomorrow.

Spark Central grows community connection.

By bringing people together for inspiring community events and creative learning activities, we invite volunteers, residents, teachers, and students to learn from and inspire one another. This community builds a sense of belonging, confidence, and ignites dialogue that benefits everyone.