“We’re proud of partnerships like this — that we can continue to work together,” Lindsay says. “The sponsorship dollars can go so far, and can do something across the province to give opportunities for kids that might not otherwise get them.”
Building a legacy with Co-op
Supporting kids is not only about the immediate results. It is about creating lasting impact for kids, their families, and the community. That’s why Legacy Co-op partnered with Creative Kids for Fuel Good Day this year.
Beading program helps youth discover creativity and more
Young participants in the Saskatoon city core are discovering more than just a new hobby. The experience is helping them build new skills and express themselves creatively.
Dancing to success: Young sisters thriving in Highland dance
Two sisters have found their passion for Highland dancing thanks to Creative Kids.
Holiday theatre performance gives kids the gift of confidence
With support from Creative Kids, younger children in the community were able to step onto the stage this past holiday season for a performance of The Nutcracker, an opportunity that would not have been possible otherwise.
15 years helping Saskatchewan kids grow
For 15 years, Creative Kids has supported Saskatchewan families, helping children facing financial barriers take part in arts and cultural activities.
Long-time volunteer reflects on the impact of Creative Kids
Erica Cochrane has seen firsthand how Creative Kids makes it possible for children across the province to participate in the arts.
Learning to play the guitar sets musician on a course to help others
To help him cope with depression, Dillon Gazandlare picked up a guitar. As a below-theelbow amputee, he didn’t know if he would be able to play, but he did it anyway.
Participation in dance leads to many successes
Eleven-year-old Raveena Dhillon Starblanket achieved some impressive milestones in dance this past year. Success she credits to the support she received from her family, her community and Creative Kids.
Art camp builds new friendships for youth entering high school
Understanding how artistic activities create community and form relationships, Maria Barranco Escobar was able to hold a special summer arts camp thanks to Creative Kids to help ease transition into high school for grade seven students.
Brothers reflect on the many gifts they received from violin lessons
Thanks to Creative Kids, Taegen and Keegan Isaac were able to take violin lessons as children. Both credit those lessons as “instrumental” in creating opportunities for growth and new connections.
Drum-making teaches youth respect, pride and creative expression
Due to the growing popularity of the Seven Stones Community School Drum Club, Chase Shingoose realized he needed more drums. He recognized that if each student had their own drum, they could practice at home, perform at other events, and deepen their connections to their culture.
Musician’s concert showcases talent and benefits Creative Kids
For musician Donny Parenteau, putting on a concert featuring some of the province’s top Indigenous talents is an opportunity to support Creative Kids and help more children and youth facing financial barriers find their artistic passion.
“I come from a family that couldn’t afford music lessons when I was a kid. Creative Kids didn’t exist then. I had to learn on my own and it took a lot longer,” he says. “All kids should have the opportunity to participate in an arts or cultural activity because it molds them into strong people and builds confidence.”
Creative Kids funding recipient is the first to receive top honours
This past month, after years of hard work, Brianna Dash became the first in Canada to complete the Advanced Solo Award Ballet exam, the highest ballet level within the Canadian Dance Teachers’ Association (CDTA). She attributes lots of hard work, great training from teachers and support from Creative Kids as keys to her success.
Performer finds a deep connection to music
The first time JJ Voss played the guitar, not only did he find his vocation, but he found a tool to express himself. Now four decades later, he is an award-winning country singer, songwriter and performer.
New service provider connects kids to the art of sewing
Bernadine Sapp’s background in the mental health sector helps her appreciate how much her students gain from her sewing lessons. Throughout weeks-long courses, she has seen kids start expressing themselves more with their clothes and being more creative —discovering their Indigenous cultural identity.
Former Creative Kid is championing the program that changed his life
For Creative Kids Champion Cole Knutson, giving back to the organization that gave him the ability to explore different musical instruments matters to him. He wants all Saskatchewan kids, who face financial barriers, to have the opportunity to pursue their artistic curiosities and gain the benefits through their journeys.
Music lessons helps kids unlock unseen potential
When Adriana Sanchez was eight years old, her family unexpectedly received a piano as a gif t from a generous neighbor. Seeing this beautiful instrument motivated her to learn how to play. After six years of receiving music lessons, thanks to Creative Kids support, the piano top is now full of Adriana’s trophies and medals from music competitions.
Sisters on a path to success thanks to Creative Kids
Elizabeth and Emily Kelln gained many opportunities of growth thanks to the support they received from Creative Kids for voice and choir participation. Both sisters developed many beneficial skills that set them up for success as adults, as well as, helping them find a deep joy and appreciation of music.
Participation in dance sets kids on a path for success
Over the last ten years, Kimberly Parent has had 77 students benefit from Creative Kids funding to take salsa dance lessons at her studio, an opportunity they wouldn’t have had without the generous donors who give to Creative Kids in Saskatchewan.
“The kids that receive funding from Creative Kids are very grateful, humble and dedicated students,” says Parent, the owner of Saskatoon Salsa Dance Company in Saskatoon. “They are aware of how much of an opportunity it is for them.”
Removing barriers to cultural activities benefits youth in many ways
Making sure inner-city kids have lots of options and no barriers to participate in cultural activities is a priority for Dao Duong. Since he started as a Dream Broker in 2021, he has witnessed the strong impact that cultural teachings can have on children and youth.
New Champion says artistic activities build resilience
When Karlie King was asked to become a Champion for the Creative Kids program she quickly responded “yes”, as she had seen her own children benefit in many ways from artistic activities.
New Champion’s Resolve to Give Back Grows Deeper
“Over the last year, thanks to my involvement as a spokesperson, not only have I benefited by the mentoring and training I have received, but I have gained the realization that my experience and voice are important as I talk about what the support from Creative Kids gave me.”
Youth’s Confidence Blossoms in Art Class
Brandie Perkins, the owner of the Cathedral Arts School and Studio in Regina, believes in the power of the arts to change young people’s lives. She’s seen it first-hand.
Young Musician Finds Happiness Through Music
As a young pianist, Chen Ni Liang knows firsthand the importance of supporting a young person’s love of music.
Sisters See Dance as Key to Their Success
Thanks to Creative Kids, sisters N’Tanis and Kori Wuttunee were both able to take salsa dance lessons together. They credit the skills and opportunities they gained from their dance experience as the reason why they have already achieved so much in life.
Teaching Traditions to Students Important to Cree Knowledge Keeper
Connecting the students back to their culture through traditional teachings is important to Lynal Ernest.
Service Provider sees Creative Kids as ‘a great opportunity’
As a Spanish tutor for the past four years, Andrea Barrientos has found fun and easy ways for her students to learn Spanish language.
Fly Studios YXE Creates Safe Space for Kids to Get Creative and Heal
A Saskatoon aerial arts studio owner is creating a safe space for kids to discover their talents and achieve success.
Access to Arts Important for all Ages
Ben Redant, 40, has been in the arts for as long as he can remember. He recalls playing the piano at age 5, and he has been playing ever since.
Two Generations of Creative Kids
For the first time since the program started, Creative Kids records show that over time the program has funded both a mother and a daughter.
Dreams Come True: Creative Kids Ballerina Gets Big Dance Opportunity
A dream has come true for a Saskatoon ballerina. Prarthona, 12, a Saskatoon ballerina who has been receiving Creative Kids funding since 2014 will be going to the Alberta Ballet School this summer.
