In 1999, distinguished artist and author Rachel Druten saw the lack of funding for art and music classes in elementary schools in the valley. Her dream was to reach, teach and inspire valley children through the arts. She founded Tools for Tomorrow (TFT), a free afterschool program to teach creative writing, music, art and drama. Classes were launched in four Desert Hot Springs schools for grades 3-5. As children created works of art or played an instrument for the first time, they gained confidence and self-esteem. Instructors stressed kindness and sensitivity to others, essential life skills and “tools for tomorrow.”
Rachel assembled a diverse board, obtained a “regional access project” grant and recruited learning experts, such as Ed DiNicola, to develop an integrated creative writing, art, music and theater curriculum. TFT expanded to schools across the valley. In 2013, Claire Smith, an early supporter, convinced the board that a fundraising arm was essential to sustain TFT so the Visionaries, a passionate group of donors, was created. The Visionaries have been an integral part of TFT’s successful expansion.
When COVID-19 closed schools in March 2020, TFT quickly adapted to offer online classes. Children’s artistic self-expression, creativity and mental/emotional health became more important during the isolating days of the pandemic. TFT was there to fill a unique niche with coping skills through its arts classes.
Today TFT proudly offers programs in 27 schools across the Valley. TFT also launched a first-ever summer arts program in Cathedral City. Statistics from School Accountability Report Cards reveal that 89% of the children in our classes are socioeconomically disadvantaged, 40% are English learners, 11% are students with special needs or disabilities and 7% are homeless.
TFT employs teaching artists that hold classes weekly. Art kits, books and musical instruments are provided free to the children. Students’ imaginations are inspired to produce art, music, poetry, stories and plays under the guidance of program director Emily Culhan, teachers and dedicated volunteers. TFT’s board is led by President Judith Antonio and Executive Director Andrea Hecht. Funding comes from foundations, Visionaries members, donations and special events. $12,000 supports one school for one year. TFT has a Platinum GuideStar Rating.
TFT’s goal is to expand to all public elementary schools in the valley, requiring more funds, teachers and volunteers for classes, events, social media, videography and photography. To become a Visionaries member, volunteer or attend an upcoming event, contact Carol@toolsfortomorrow.org or call (760)601-3954.
On Dec. 3 the Visionaries will host Picasso Circle members to launch TFT’s 25th year and honor Rachel Druten’s 90th birthday. Join us February 26 for our Vision for the Future Award Gala, “Celebrate Friendship!” honoring Joe Giarrusso. Directed by Joyce Bulifant and emceed by KESQ’S Patrick Evans, the fundraiser will be at Agua Caliente Resort Casino in Rancho Mirage. It will feature dinner, an auction, live performances by TFT students and a musical revue by former TFT teachers Francesca Amari and Gilmore Rizzo.
Michael Gennet is a TFT Visionaries member and former president of the San Francisco Furniture Mart. He can be reached at michaelgennet@gmail.com
