Children will continue to enjoy art programs at Inti Academy courtesy of St. May's Bank.

The nation's first credit union has provided a $2,125 community outreach grant to fund an afterschool art program conducted by the Currier Museum Art Center.

"Art is about inspiration, and providing an outlet for imagination," Tom Champagne, director of community outreach at the $814 million credit union based in Manchester, N.H. "These young artists can discover hidden talents and develop a unique sense of self that comes from artistic expression. We're pleased to provide these funds to make programs like this possible."

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In partnership with the Currier Art Center's ArtWorks! in Schools outreach program, the grant will provide access to a four-week afterschool program to inner city youth living in Manchester, N.H.

"These children are in desperate need of quality educational and recreational opportunities after school. They are primarily from refugee or immigrant families, and most live below the poverty line," Fred Harwood, vice president, Inti Academy said. ""Art fosters imagination, intellectual development, academic achievement, and self-esteem."

Inti Academy of Manchester was founded as a soccer academy to serve the city's underprivileged youth, but also offers afterschool academic programs incorporating enrichment activities, cultural activities, and field trips.

According to Art Center Director Bruce McColl, the program was created with the hope of helping to make children's lives better through art.   

In preparation for each art class, the students learn about the featured artists and write biographies, combining art with reading and writing, which have helped meet critical needs for English-language learners.

According to a report by Americans for the Arts, art education strengthens problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. 

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