YOU help make an IMPACT in YOUNG PEOPLE’S LIVES!
5,000 served annually
2,840 youth performed @ LEAF
25,459 youth served since 2004

Teaching Artists are from the local, regional and international community. The program is designed to reach children and adults of different socio-economic backgrounds in the Asheville area and Western NC. LSS was inspired by LEAF executive director’s godchildren living in public housing where she saw great disparity in access to the arts for children living in Klondyke Apartments in the Montford neighborhood of Asheville.

Like LEAF | Lake Eden Arts Festival, LSS proves that music and the arts can bridge cultures and create life-altering, community-building experiences. Our LSS programs provide an opportunity for youth participants to attend and perform at LEAF alongside their Teaching Artist. Participating youth gain self-esteem and cultural awareness while experiencing multiple interactions with performing artists, being a performer on stage and a festival adventure.

“Thank you for allowing our students the opportunity to take part in the LEAF in Schools & Streets (LSS) program. Montessori Cooperative School’s (MCS) staff and students are very appreciative for the experience. MCS is striving to facilitate a global view of our world for our students and families. The chance to connect with Mariam Matossian and her family was inspirational and our students performing on stage was exhilarating…  We hope to be able to participate again.”