Tools For Tomorrow

Tools For Tomorrow Creative Clubs provide free, after-school arts literacy programs integrating Creative Writing, Art, Music and Theater for children ages eight to eleven.

Artist and Author Rachel Druten founded Tools For Tomorrow in 1999 and introduced the program to four schools in Desert Hot Springs. This year (2024-25) TFT will reach more than 1,000 students in the Coachella Valley with 24 school-based programs and an additional 5 community partnerships.

In 25 years, TFT has served more than 22,000 children. Over 90% of TFT students are socioeconomically disadvantaged, 81% are Latino, 35% are English learners, 11% have disabilities, and 6% struggle with homelessness.

Classes generally meet afterschool, once a week, for 60 to 90 minutes. All art and creative writing supplies are provided by TFT, FREE to the children. Qualified teaching artists use a professionally designed, standards-based curriculum to teach about the Masters: artists, musicians, writers, etc. The children learn about their hardships, their inspirations, and the techniques they use to express themselves. At this age, children are transitioning from learning to read, to reading to learn. Many of our children are learning English as a second language.

In the Theatre Troupe program children collaborate on plays and performances, learning about the parts of a story, developing characters, creating sets and costumes, and incorporating music. In all our programs, we encourage the older children to help the younger children with writing words, using art supplies, and developing their thoughts.

Our students tell their teachers and parents that their TFT class is the highlight of their week. They look forward to participating in the TFT program where they can be successful in a safe place. Principals and teachers report that TFT programs help boost academic performance, increase attendance, reduce risky behaviors, promote physical and mental health, and provide a safe, structured environment for the children of working parents. TFT alumni mention the confidence they gain and the realization that it is okay to not be perfect - the outcome can still be beautiful.

Testimonials

TFT programs promote cognitive, emotional, social, multi-sensory and critical thinking skills by offering a hands-on experience in Art, Music, Creative Writing and Theatre. TFT encourages the children's artistic self-expression and nurtures the positive self-esteem resulting from the discovery of their inherent creativity. As children create their own works of Art they acquire a coping mechanism for the future: a "tool for tomorrow" and a vision of what their lives can become.

Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD) has identified TFT Programs as "a key component in assisting our students back into the classroom." Jaime Bikis, Supervisor Expanded Learning Programs

"He loves the class, we greatly appreciate what you are doing for the kids!" - Bob K.

"Thank you so much for giving her an outlet and helping her through all this - she loves drawing so much!!" - Jamie M.

"Just wanted to send a quick note to tell you that Annabella (my daughter) really enjoyed her first time with tools of tomorrow! She looked forward to every Thursday and couldn't wait to learn more on how to express herself creatively. Thank you for the wonderful program!" - Yvonne R.

TFT Volunteer Judith Antonio has observed that "TFT programs provide children with a coping method and the ability to express themselves in a safe manner, to deal with issues both negative and positive. This helps not only today but creates lifelong skills."

TFT Teaching Artists Ellen Brenner and Billy Makuta, "We ARE SO EXTREMELY grateful for this opportunity during these incredible times to be of help to these families through social/emotional learning. It is so terribly important and I know we and the other teachers are making an important difference."

TFT programs encourage children to share their creativity, and inspire them to take leadership roles in their schools. Children are introduced to instruments and develop the confidence to join the band. Children learn to express their feelings, collaborate to write plays, design costumes and sets, and present their creative projects to peers and communities.