About Us
The past, present, and future of Creative Action.
Creative Action is an Austin-based nonprofit, founded in 1997 that empowers young people through the arts.
We provide high-quality, culturally relevant arts education that supports whole-child development and builds creativity, confidence, and critical thinking skills.
Through programs led by professional teaching artists, we inspire students to become Creative Artists, Critical Thinkers, Confident Leaders and Courageous Allies.
During the 2025-26 program year, Creative Action served 16,468 members of our community.
1,090
Students attended After School programs at
elementary schools across the Austin area.
1,890
1st-5th grade students participated in a
Brave Schools program during school.
Data from the 2025-26 school year.
1,647
Middle school students saw an original play, written and performed by our Changing Lives Youth Theatre Ensemble.
6 years
As the Best of Austin “Youth Arts Program” winner in the Austin Chronicle readers poll.
30 years of Creative Action
Mission. Vision. Values. Impact.
Our new home. Coming Fall 2027.
Mission
Through the power of the arts, we build community and foster Creative Artists, Critical Thinkers, Confident Leaders and Courageous Allies.
Vision
A creative and vibrant Central Texas where all people grow in connection, purpose, and possibility.
Values
Dream Big • Create Community
Stand Up • Strive for Excellence •
Have Fun
Our approach builds ‘4C’ Students.
Creative Artists
Students refine their artistic skills through consistent creation, presentation, and performance.
Practicing imaginative expression.
Critical Thinkers
Students develop cognitive flexibility, embrace adaptability, and master strategic problem-solving.
Analyzing complex challenges.
Confident Leaders
Students grow in self-awareness, build personal resilience, and nurture a true sense of belonging.
Guiding collaborative success.
Courageous Allies
Students deepen their empathy, stand up for equity, and foster a strong sense of community.
Exercising social responsibility.
The 4C Framework:
Whole-Child Learning Through the Arts
At Creative Action, we blend arts education and youth development to create dynamic, holistic learning experiences. Through our work, youth discover how to become 4C Students - equipping them with the exact skills they need to thrive. By helping young people imagine and embody these four identities, we unlock their full potential.
Our Three Pillars of Practice
To build these traits, our intentional approach shapes where, how,
and what we teach:
Building Supportive and Safe Learning Environments
Employing Student-Centered Instructional Practices
Producing Culturally and Socially Responsive Art-Based Curricula
30 Years of Creative Action
Community Arts Collaborative
Creative Action In the News
Creative Action
Have questions? Email us at info@creativeaction.org