The Garrett Lakes Arts Festival’s educational series has made a remarkable impact on 1,190 students through a series of vibrant and engaging workshops. The initiative was made possible by a generous $12,000 grant from the Naylor Family Trust at The Community Trust Foundation (CTF), enabling students from Northern and Southern public schools, Calvary Christian Academy, Swan Meadow School, homeschool groups, and other youth organizations to participate in enriching arts education programs.
The experiences included Latin ballet with salsa dance and Spanish language, a woodwind master class, and a family circus “From China to Appalachia” giving students enriched creativity, cultural awareness and personal growth.
Laura Fike, the Executive Director of Garrett Mentors, commented “Garrett Lakes Arts Festival has provided an assortment of excellent children’s programs for our community. The children in our mentoring program have greatly benefited by being able to attend these events with their mentors. The presenters have been fun, entertaining, and educational and have provided the mentors and their children with such a great bonding activity to share that they will hold in their memories for years to come.”
2025 grant applications are currently under review by CTF’s Grant Committee, awards will be presented in early June. Note: Garrett Lakes Arts Festival (GLAF) has changed their name to Stage West.
Community Trust Foundation (CTF) is your local community foundation created with gifts from generous people committed to local causes. Through the support of its donors, the Foundation grants to local nonprofit organizations working to build a stronger community in the areas of Arts & Historical Preservation, Health & Wellness, Vibrant Communities & Thriving Environment, and Education & Youth Leadership. Connecting philanthropy with community good in Allegany, Garrett, and Mineral Counties.
Photo caption: Garrett County grade school students join Marisol Cristina Betancourt, Artistic Director, the performers of the Latin Ballet after an exciting workshop exploring Latin culture and ethnic dance, igniting creativity and cultural appreciation!
