Art From the Streets: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Art From the Streets (AFTS) is a volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Austin, Texas, established in 1991. The organization provides a safe and encouraging environment for individuals experiencing homelessness and those at risk, fostering their creativity through artistic expression. AFTS aims to empower these individuals by nurturing their artistic talents, promoting self-determination, and facilitating social connections. The organization also offers avenues for income generation through the sale of their artwork.

Mission and Vision

AFTS's mission is to provide a safe and encouraging environment where the positive spirit and creativity of people experiencing homelessness and at-risk individuals are nurtured through their own artistic expression. These artistic endeavors form a pathway to self-determination by means of the sense of achievement, social connections, and income generated through the pursuit of their art.

Primary Area of Focus

The organization focuses on providing open studio sessions, workshops, and community outreach programs that enable participants to create, exhibit, and sell their art. By offering these resources, AFTS aims to build a sense of accomplishment, strengthen social connections, and generate earned income for individuals facing homelessness.

Industry Significance

AFTS plays a crucial role in addressing homelessness in Austin by integrating art as a tool for empowerment and economic opportunity. The organization not only supports the local art community but also contributes to social change by providing marginalized individuals with a platform to express themselves and achieve financial independence.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Empowerment Through Art: Providing a platform for individuals experiencing homelessness to express themselves creatively, fostering a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Economic Opportunity: Facilitating the sale of artwork, allowing artists to earn income and work towards financial stability.

Community Building: Creating a supportive network where artists can connect with peers, volunteers, and the broader community, reducing social isolation.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Open Studio Sessions: Regularly scheduled times where artists can create in a supportive environment.

Workshops and Skill-Building: Offering instruction and mentorship to enhance artistic techniques and professional development.

Art Exhibitions and Sales: Organizing events where artists can showcase and sell their work, with proceeds supporting their livelihoods.

Key Technologies Utilized

Online Sales Platforms: Utilizing e-commerce websites to sell artwork and merchandise, expanding reach beyond local exhibitions.

Digital Marketing Tools: Employing social media and digital marketing strategies to promote events, engage with the community, and attract potential buyers.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Homeless and At-Risk Individuals: Focusing on those experiencing homelessness or at risk, providing them with resources to develop and sell their art.

Local Art Community: Engaging with local art enthusiasts, collectors, and organizations to support and promote the artists.

General Public: Encouraging the community to participate in art shows, purchase artwork, and support the mission of AFTS.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

AFTS has been supported through a combination of individual donations, grants from foundations, fundraising events, and the sale of artwork. In September 2021, the organization achieved 70% of a $600,000 three-year funding goal, enabling them to lease a dedicated studio space within the Canopy community in East Austin.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details about recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. However, the organization continues to engage in fundraising efforts, including annual art shows and sales, to support its programs and initiatives.

Notable Investors

As a non-profit organization, AFTS relies on the generosity of individual donors, local businesses, and community partners rather than traditional investors.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Funds are utilized to support operational costs, including leasing and maintaining studio space, purchasing art supplies, organizing workshops and exhibitions, and funding outreach programs. The goal is to provide a sustainable environment where artists can thrive and achieve self-determination.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

AFTS does not operate in the traditional sense of a product development pipeline. Instead, the organization focuses on the continuous development and support of its artists through various programs and initiatives.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

Not applicable, as AFTS is not involved in clinical trials or product development.

Target Conditions

The primary focus is on individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk, providing them with opportunities to develop and sell their art.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Annual Art Show and Sale: Typically held in October, this event showcases the artists' work and serves as a significant fundraising opportunity.

Community Art Shows: Scheduled throughout the year, these exhibitions provide additional platforms for artists to display and sell their work.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

AFTS utilizes an online gallery and e-commerce platform to sell prints and merchandise, allowing artists to reach a broader audience beyond local exhibitions.

Significant Scientific Methods

While not a scientific organization, AFTS employs methodologies that support the personal development and empowerment of individuals through art, including:

Open Studio Sessions: Providing a consistent and supportive environment for creative expression.

Workshops and Skill-Building: Offering instruction and mentorship to enhance artistic techniques and professional development.

AI-Driven Capabilities

There is no indication that AFTS currently utilizes AI-driven technologies in its operations.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Kelley Worden: Executive Director. Kelley holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from East Tennessee State University and has been involved with AFTS since 2010, serving as Executive Director since 2016.

Mindy Marcks: President. Mindy is an HR leader with experience at companies like IBM, Samsung, and The Hershey Company. She began volunteering with AFTS in 2024 and became President in 2025.

Molly Batschelet: Vice President. Molly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with over 20 years of experience in homeless services. She joined the AFTS board in 2023 and serves as Vice President and Co-Chair of the Community Connections Committee.

Rich Gottbrath: Treasurer. Rich is Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Value Creation Strategies Holdings, an Austin-based private equity investment fund. He joined the AFTS board in 2019 and serves on the Finance and Development Committees.

Sh'muel Avraham: Treasurer. Sh'muel is Managing Director of Avraham Holdings and a licensed Texas attorney, providing strategic financial leadership to AFTS.

Brett Williams: Board Member. Brett is the founder of UniqueAnd (U&), a digital marketing agency, and has been involved with AFTS because he believes creativity should open doors and create real opportunity for artists.

Jodie King: Board Member. Jodie is an artist, instructor, author, and speaker whose mission is to help others excavate their own authentic power, freedom, and joy through the use of art and creativity.

Allee Beatty: Board Member. Allee is the Gallery Director at West Chelsea Contemporary in Austin, Texas, and has worked with AFTS for the last several years, curating exhibitions and providing artists with advice.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for art created by individuals experiencing homelessness is niche but growing, with increasing recognition of the therapeutic and economic benefits of art programs for marginalized communities. Organizations like AFTS contribute to this market by providing platforms for artists to showcase and sell their work, thereby supporting their financial independence and social integration.

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