WINCHESTER — A new summer arts program will provide learning experiences for low-income families who do not have the opportunity for summer vacation travel. Family ArtFest will offer families free access to creative resources thanks to a $4,250 What’s Your Ambition?! grant from The Greater Clark Foundation.

“So many families cannot afford traditional get-away vacations. Family ArtFest is a fun way for families to connect and keep children engaged over summer break without ever leaving town,” said Cora Heffner, community education director, Clark County Public Schools. “By learning together as families, they’ll strengthen bonds and gain tools to be successful at home and in the community. Additionally, keeping students’ minds working will help stem summer learning loss.”

Family ArtFest will allow families to engage and learn together during multiple sessions such as: photography, dance, writing, paper bead making, bracelet making, painting, drawing, gardening, sewing, mindfulness and yoga. The program will also provide an opportunity for adults to teach hands-on activities to their children. In addition, it will be a safe place for participants and provide leadership and volunteer opportunities for teenagers and adults.

“Strong families build strong communities,” said Jen Algire, president and chief executive officer of The Greater Clark Foundation. “Family ArtFest provides a chance for families to learn and grow together in a fun, relaxed environment, something that is a luxury for many families. Parents are working so hard just to cover basic needs that educational play – the most important work of childhood – doesn’t always get the attention it deserves.”

Clark County Homeless Coalition, Partners In Education, Community Education, UK Extension Services, and Auntie’s Academy have partnered to make Family ArtFest a reality.

Family ArtFest runs July 11 through July 27 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursday for 4.5 hours each day. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. with the first session at 11 a.m. Lunch will be provided and will be followed by two additional sessions, one of which will include reading. The program will wrap up at3 p.m. each day.

Children must be accompanied by an adult to attend. This may be a parent, sibling, neighbor or babysitter over the age of 18. Free child care will also be provided by Auntie’s Academy for those under the age of 5. Call 859-744-8733 with questions.