Education & Community Programs

Since 1995, the Cincinnati Arts Association’s (CAA) Education & Community Engagement programs have reached over 2 million individuals, reflecting a deep and lasting impact across our region.

Recognized as a leader in arts education and community engagement, CAA has received prestigious honors from the Ohio Arts Council and the Dana Foundation for excellence in service, innovation, and accessibility. Building on this strong foundation, our department continues to unlock creativity, broaden access to high-quality arts experiences, and foster meaningful connections among artists, educators, audiences, and communities.

Guided by the core values of honor, humility, honesty, and humor, CAA delivers inclusive, multidisciplinary programming that supports lifelong learning, cultural understanding, and the well-being of our community through the power of the arts.

Our Vision

Inspire awareness that creativity is intrinsic, and the arts are integral to human development.

Our Mission

The Cincinnati Arts Association’s Community Arts mission is to educate, inspire, and serve the Cincinnati region through engaging arts programs that enrich lives and build community.

Department Goals

• Develop arts programs that are accessible and serve a diverse community.
• Ensure high-quality, engaging arts experiences.
• Infuse the arts into both traditional and non-traditional settings.
• Empower a creative community through dynamic arts engagements.
• Secure meaningful opportunities for local artists and arts groups.

Desired Outcomes of Our Work

1. Expanded Access to the Arts

• Guarantee equitable access for individuals of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and communities.
• Remove physical, financial, cultural, and perceptual barriers to participation.

2. Lifelong Engagement in the Arts

• Cultivate a sustained relationship with the arts at every stage of life—from early childhood to senior years.
• Embed arts into everyday life through education and community programs.

3. Empowered and Creative Communities

• Inspire individuals and communities to recognize and activate their own creative potential.
• Position the arts as a tool for personal growth, community cohesion, and civic engagement.

4. Culturally Rich and Inclusive Experiences

• Foster deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures through the arts.
• Ensure programming reflects and celebrates multicultural voices and perspectives.

5. High-Quality, Impactful Arts Education

• Deliver educational, engaging, and artistically excellent programs.
• Equip participants with knowledge and skills to appreciate and create art.
• Promote arts as essential to well-rounded education, inside and outside the classroom.

6. Artist and Educator Support & Development

• Provide growth, collaboration, and professional development opportunities for artists and educators.
• Cultivate future artists and arts leaders through mentorship and exposure.

7. Strong Community Partnerships

• Build and sustain collaborations with schools, health providers, social services, and cultural organizations.
• Position CAA as a trusted leader in regional community development through the arts.

8. Organizational Integrity and Culture

• Operate guided by the values of Honor, Humility, Honesty, and Humor, fostering an ethical, empathetic, and joyful work culture.
• Align programs with fiduciary responsibility and strategic goals for sustainable impact.

Education & Community Engagement

At the Cincinnati Arts Association (CAA), we believe the arts have the power to transform lives, connect communities, and unlock the creative potential in everyone.

Since 1995, our Education & Community Engagement (ECE) programs have reached more than 2 million people—providing inclusive, inspiring, and high-quality arts experiences across Greater Cincinnati. Our approach is rooted in the values of Honor, Humility, Honesty, and Humor, and every program is designed to engage, empower, and connect.

What We Do

• Expand Access: We bring the arts to schools, neighborhoods, healthcare facilities, and community spaces—ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate.
• Foster Creativity: From workshops and performances to artist residencies and cross-sector partnerships, we create spaces where creativity thrives.
• Build Community: Our programs promote lifelong engagement in the arts while strengthening connections among individuals, families, and organizations.

Our Commitment

All of our programs align with key departmental goals, including:

• Making the arts accessible to all
• Serving and reflecting our diverse community
• Creating engaging, meaningful arts experiences
• Integrating the arts in both traditional and unexpected places
• Empowering communities through creative expression

Recognized by the Ohio Arts Council and the Dana Foundation for excellence, CAA continues to lead as a trusted partner in education, artistic development, and community well-being.

Join Us

Whether you're an educator, artist, community leader, or lifelong learner—CAA invites you to experience the arts in ways that are relevant, welcoming, and transformative.