Outreach
Outreach Meets People Where They Are
Bringing free, trauma-informed art workshops directly to shelters and navigation centers across Austin.
Founded in 1991, Art From the Streets began with a simple idea: many people experiencing homelessness in Austin are talented artists who lack access to materials, space, and opportunity. For more than 30 years, our studio has offered a free, welcoming creative home. Outreach takes that same idea back to its roots — bringing art directly into the shelters and navigation centers where people already are.
WHAT IS OUTREACH?
The purpose of Outreach is to bring art and meaningful connection directly to navigation centers and shelters, ensuring that creative opportunities are accessible to individuals where they are. Through consistent presence, we aim to build trust and develop authentic relationships with participants over time.
Piloted in 2025 and expanded to weekly sessions in 2026, Outreach brings trauma-informed art workshops directly to shelters and navigation centers across Austin, reaching adults who are currently unhoused — no experience required. It introduces people to AFTS's studio and its income opportunities, but also serves its own purpose: a rare, low-barrier space to step away from immediate survival demands and simply create — a social outlet, a sense of autonomy, and a break from survival mode.
Many people cycle in and out of crisis services without ever accessing a consistent, therapeutic outlet. Outreach offers exactly that: a steady, weekly space to be part of a community, support mental health, and simply belong — not a one-time service, but a relationship that continues, week after week.
OUR COMMUNITY
All sessions run 1:00–3:00 PM, except Trinity Center's seasonal evening sessions.
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Marshalling Yard — Mondays, 1–3 PM
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ARCH — Tuesdays, 1–3 PM
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Charlie Center — Wednesdays, 1–3 PM
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8th Street Women's & Transgender Shelter — Thursdays, 1–3 PM
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Sunrise Navigation Center — Fridays, 1–3 PM
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Trinity Center — seasonal, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30–6:30 PM
PARTICIPANT VOICES
"Art from the Streets gives the opportunity of being in a neutral space when there is so much turmoil in people's lives."
— Willow Jones, Outreach participant
"Exercising my creative mind keeps my mind flexible and able to receive joy."
— Ashley Johnson, Outreach participant
GET INVOLVED
Our work is rooted in the belief that creative expression is a powerful tool for building community and honoring each person's story. As a volunteer, you play an essential role in fostering a welcoming, respectful environment where individuals feel seen, valued, and encouraged to engage at their own pace.
Interested in volunteering with Outreach? Fill out the form below and share your email and the locations and times that work for your schedule.
More ways to get involved, coming soon!
