Art Is Our Weapon of Choice
Creative Diversion. Mentorship. Apprenticeship. Transformation.
About Art Not Arms
Art Not Arms is a court-referred diversion and creative apprenticeship program for young men ages 13–18. Through poetry, storytelling, spoken word, filmmaking, and mentorship, participants learn how to transform personal experiences into creativity, discipline, and opportunity.
The program combines creative expression, emotional development, workforce readiness, and mentorship to provide constructive alternatives to violence while helping youth build confidence, communication skills, and career pathways.
Through partnerships with courts, schools, mentors, and community organizations, Art Not Arms creates structured opportunities for growth, accountability, and artistic development.
The Program
01.
— Creative Expression
Participants use spoken word poetry, storytelling, and filmmaking as tools for communication, reflection, and personal growth.
02.
— Storytelling & Spoken Word
Youth learn how to transform life experiences into powerful narratives through guided writing workshops and performance training.
03.
— Reel Block Project
Participants learn scriptwriting, directing, filming, editing, and visual storytelling through hands-on filmmaking projects.
04.
— Mentorship
Professional artists, educators, and mentors provide accountability, leadership, guidance, and support throughout the program.
05.
— Mental Health Awareness
Participants engage in emotional literacy exercises, guided reflection discussions, and supportive dialogue environments.
06.
— Apprenticeship Pathways
Participants gain exposure to media production, entrepreneurship, skilled trades, workforce readiness, and creative career opportunities.
Impact Stories
Creative Expression Builds Confidence
Participants develop communication skills, discipline, leadership abilities, and emotional awareness through storytelling, poetry, filmmaking, and mentorship.
Mentorship Creates New Pathways
Art Not Arms helps youth explore identity, purpose, career opportunities, and alternatives to violence through structured mentorship and creative apprenticeship experiences.
Community Partnerships
Support Art Not Arms
Help provide mentorship, creative workshops, filmmaking equipment, apprenticeship opportunities, and workforce development for participating youth.
Support from sponsors, organizations, and community members helps Art Not Arms continue creating constructive alternatives to violence through creativity, mentorship, and opportunity.