Eight-year-old Nathan has been writing his ‘Ned & Ted’ stories since 1st grade. When his mom asked him to choose an activity for the summer, he said he wanted to learn to draw pictures to go with his stories. “I researched other area programs and they were so specific about how to draw each thing,” said Erin Rawlings. “The teachers (at PCCA) inspire creativity. I love how they introduce him to quality art tools - beyond Crayola - and do more than teach how to draw. They teach him how to think like an artist. We haven’t been here long but it’s amazing that you have this place right in the community. It’s not easy to find places like this that encourage creativity.” “I like cartooning,” said Nathan. “I’m a better drawer now. When I grow up I want to be an illustrator and a writer.”

“As a child, I have great memories of attending PCCA summer camp where I learned about art and practiced creativity! I’m 38 now and creativity has always been part of my life and career. When I learned I had cancer for the 4th time, my situation was dire and we thought I didn’t have much time left. I wanted to do something to prove to myself that I could still create. Side effects of my disease and treatment, like neuropathy in my hands, make many aspects of art challenging in new ways. Working with clay is difficult, but exciting. It has shown me that I can still be an artist. My mom takes classes with me now and it’s a great way to spend time together. I know how precious time is. Time at PCCA is something I look forward to each week because of the incredible community of teachers, staff and classmates. That’s why I wouldn’t go anywhere else!”