29 Pieces Company Profile

Background

29 Pieces is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2005 and headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The organization leverages art to foster kindness and positive social change, aiming to awaken, uplift, and give voice to the creative human spirit. Over the years, 29 Pieces has engaged with over 50,000 youth in North Texas and trained more than 500 teachers through its "Artists Making a Kinder World" curriculum.

Key Strategic Focus

The organization's strategic focus centers on utilizing art to promote non-violence and social-emotional learning. Its "Artists Making a Kinder World" curriculum comprises 19 lessons that address themes such as respect, love, commitment, forgiveness, curiosity, hope, and empathy. Additionally, 29 Pieces has undertaken significant community art projects, including the Dallas LOVE Project in 2013 and the Piece 24 Project from 2015 to 2017.

Financials and Funding

As a nonprofit organization, 29 Pieces is funded through grants, individual donations, earned revenue, and sales of merchandise. While specific financial details are not publicly disclosed, the organization has successfully secured funding for various projects, including raising over $250,000 for the Piece 24 Project.

Technological Platform and Innovation

29 Pieces employs a unique art-based methodology to teach kindness and social-emotional learning. This approach integrates artistic expression with educational content to engage students and educators effectively. The organization has also developed a digital platform to make its curriculum accessible online, aiming to provide free access to all 29 Pieces content in the coming years.

Leadership Team

Karen Blessen: Founder and Executive Artistic Director. A Pulitzer Prize-winning artist, Karen established 29 Pieces to use art as a tool for social change. She has been instrumental in developing the organization's curriculum and leading major projects.

Diana O'Connor: Executive Board Member. Diana contributes to the strategic direction and governance of the organization.

Sarah Salazar: Project Manager. Sarah oversees the planning and execution of various projects, ensuring they align with the organization's mission and objectives.

Competitor Profile

In the nonprofit sector focused on arts education and social change, 29 Pieces faces competition from various organizations that also utilize art to promote social-emotional learning and non-violence. While specific competitors are not detailed in the available information, the organization distinguishes itself through its comprehensive curriculum and large-scale community art projects.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

29 Pieces has collaborated with numerous community partners and artists to execute large-scale projects. For instance, the Dallas LOVE Project in 2013 involved 120 community partners and 20,000 artists, resulting in 10,000 pieces of art exhibited in 68 locations.

Operational Insights

The organization's unique approach of integrating art with education allows it to effectively engage diverse communities and foster positive social change. Its focus on kindness and non-violence resonates with a broad audience, enhancing its impact and reach.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, 29 Pieces plans to expand its digital presence by building a platform that provides free access to its curriculum. This initiative aims to reach a wider audience and further its mission of promoting kindness and social-emotional learning through art.