Young artists from the Youth Empowerment Shelter (YES) in The Dalles, Oregon, will showcase their work in a public exhibition and reception on June 13, 2025, at Yvonne’s Art Studio. The art program, revived by artist Yvonne Pepin Wakefield with seed funding from NW Natural and additional support from the Roundhouse Foundation, has provided a safe, joyful space for youth aged 11–17 to develop skills and create deeply personal artwork. The pieces will be permanently installed at SafeSpace in Hood River, a nonprofit supporting children affected by abuse and neglect.
This exhibition matters because it highlights how community-driven art programs can empower vulnerable youth, building confidence and resilience while fostering a sense of belonging. The collaboration between YES, local artists, and funders demonstrates the tangible impact of arts funding on mental health and social support, offering a model for similar initiatives in other communities.